Celebrate National Walk Your Dog Month!

As the new year unfolds, pet enthusiasts nationwide gear up to celebrate National Walk Your Dog Month. It is a dedicated time to prioritize the health and happiness of our canine companions. This annual initiative, which originated here in the United States, has now become a global movement, encouraging dog owners everywhere to leash up, lace up their walking shoes, and embark on daily adventures with their furry friends.

As we at Companion Veterinary Mobile Center embrace National Walk Your Dog Month, let’s honor its origins and recognize the global impact it has had on fostering healthier, happier lives for dogs. Leash up, step outside, and embark on a month-long journey of exploration, exercise, and unparalleled joy with your canine companion. Together, let’s celebrate the shared love and adventure that walking our dogs brings into our lives.

Jessica's dogs walking at Robinson Preserve in Bradenton

The Roots of National Walk Your Dog Month:

This Month originated right here in the United States in 2022 as a response to the increasing concerns about canine obesity and the overall health and well-being of dogs. In 2022 it was found that 59% of dogs in the United States were classified as obese.

The initiative was established to encourage pet owners to recognize the importance of regular walks in maintaining a healthy lifestyle for their furry friends. Most dogs need a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise per day, and a productive 30-minute walk could make a tremendous difference in your dog’s well-being. 

What is the significance of this Month?

The significance of National Walk Your Dog Month extends beyond physical fitness. For pet owners, it offers an opportunity to prioritize their own health and well-being. Daily walks contribute to increased physical activity, improved cardiovascular health, and enhanced mental well-being. This creates a win-win situation for both humans and their beloved dogs.

It helps to create a more in depth bond between you and your dog, its more than just a routine. The shared experiences during daily walks create lasting memories, fostering a sense of companionship and joy. National Walk Your Dog Month emphasizes the importance of strengthening the unique bond between dogs and their owners.

Benefits of walking your dog this month (and every month!)

1. It can help you reach your fitness goals

For many of us, the new year marks the start of several new goals, and one of the most common resolutions is to get fit and kick-start physical health. It can be difficult to get back into a routine after a long festive break, especially in the colder weather, so committing to taking your dogs on daily walks is a great place to start.

To increase your chances of success, start small. Work your way up to longer walks and be consistent. Dogs love routine, and in turn, it will motivate you to get out at the same time each day to go for a walk. 

Walking is an excellent form of cardiovascular exercise and can help to improve strength and overall fitness. 

2 . Boost your dog's health

Walking your dog regularly is essential for its physical health. Dog obesity is on the rise, and whether the cause is overeating or lack of exercise, walking your dog can be a great way to keep it from getting worse.

Much like the benefits of walking for humans, regular exercise can help protect your dog’s cardiovascular system, support their joints and muscles, boost their metabolism and burn that extra energy. 

If your dog has gained weight and you’re not sure why, if they struggle to walk very far, or if you have any other health concerns, you can call us at Companion Veterinary Mobile Center to schedule an appointment to discuss proper nutrition and exercise!

3. It can make training fun

Walking is a great way to make training fun and incentivize good behavior for your dog. Several training areas are perfect for practicing during walks, such as learning to sit before crossing the street and walking well on a leash. 

Leash skills are essential for all dogs to learn as it makes the walk more enjoyable for both parties and teaches your dog how to behave around other animals or walk to heel on command. 

If you train your dog while walking, start by taking a few healthy dog treats to incentivize certain behaviors before they become a habit. Stay consistent, be patient, and don’t tell your dog if they get it wrong - instead, use positive reinforcement and lead the way by being calm. 

4. Boost mental stimulation 

While poor behavior can often be a signal that your dog needs more training, it can also indicate they just aren’t getting enough exercise to burn the energy they have. Examples of poor behaviors include:

• Snarling or showing gums

• Biting or chewing

• Destroying objects or toys

• Constant barking

• Whining or seeking attention

• Dominant behavior 

The earlier you can detect bad behavior in your dog and take steps to correct it, the better. Regular walks, no matter the weather, are key to keeping them mentally stimulated.

5. Boost your dog's social skills

Correctly socializing your dog is important for numerous reasons and helps teach them to interact with the world around them safely and healthily without fear. Fearful dogs can react in unpredictable ways, such as showing signs of dominance or displaying behaviors that can lead to difficult situations with other dogs. 

If your dog is nervous around others, start walking around the outer edge of a field or dog park away from other dogs. Slowly work your way up and allow your dog to sniff and approach other dogs - on a leash, of course. 

Stay safe while walking

Walking safely is highly important no matter where you live. Always make sure that :

• Both you and your dog are highly visible - if in doubt, wear a reflective jacket and consider a reflective coat or collar for your dog.

• Bring a flashlight for night walks

• Stay in well-lit areas, and bear in mind personal security. 

• Take water with you to ensure you and your pet stay hydrated.

• Make sure your pets are on a leash no longer than 6 feet

• Use a harness instead of a collar to prevent strain on their neck

• Bring your phone with you in case of any emergency

Now you know how to get the most out of Walk Your Dog month this January. Where will your adventures take you? We'd love to see photos of your and dog(s) enjoying the cooler weather on our Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CompanionVetCenter