Maybe you’re looking to make your walks more exciting, or maybe the weather isn’t ideal so you want to make the most out of a shorter walk, here are a few tips to change up your daily walk!
Encourage Sniffing
Walks are excellent for physical activity but they are also a great time for mental stimulation! Encourage your dog to sniff and explore their surroundings. You can take walks where sniffing is the main objective, or you can allow sniff breaks on your regular walks.
Nose Work
Take your dog’s sniffing to the next level and use your walk as an opportunity to practice some nose work. Toss some high value treats in the grass (or snow) and encourage your dog to sniff them out. Sniffing is a natural behaviour for dogs and this activity will allow them to strengthen their ability. This is a fun game you can continue at home and is great for tiring your pup out mentally!
Add in training
Make your walks more interesting by working on your dog’s training. Basic training such as loose leash walking, sit, stay and down are some great options to start. Switching up your dog’s training environment and exposing them to different distractions is a great way to work on their impulse control.
Let your dog navigate the walk
Some walks are all business with the priority of getting from point A to B, but if you’re looking for a little fun try letting your dog be the leader and follow them on the walk. You might end up chasing a great smell, tracking a squirrel or walking in circles, but letting your dog navigate will definitely add an element of surprise and excitement to your daily walk!
Try a new route
We often stick to the same route when walking, which can get boring really quick, and maybe even make you dread w.a.l.k time. Exploring new areas on your walk will shake things up and keep you interested. Try driving to a new neighbourhood and take your dog on a walk there, or take a wrong turn and get lost for a while. Your pup is always excited for a walk, now you can be too!
