Walking is still valuable
Taking your dog for a walk can be a great part of the day.
Walking gives dogs a chance to move, spend time with their people, explore their surroundings and experience new smells.
The important thing is to understand that a walk and a complete fitness program are not always the same thing.
Fitness has more than one part
Physical fitness can involve several different abilities.
These can include:
- Strength
- Balance
- Body awareness
- Flexibility
- Coordination
- Endurance
A normal walk may use some of these abilities, but it may not challenge all of them.
Why does variety matter?
Think about a dog walking on the same sidewalk at the same speed every day.
The dog is moving, but the activity stays very similar.
Now think about a dog safely walking on grass, changing direction, stepping over natural objects, slowing down to sniff, and moving at different speeds.
Those experiences ask the body and brain to do different things.
Variety can make physical activity more interesting and can provide different movement experiences.
What is a "saunter"?
A saunter is a slower walk where the goal is not to cover a certain distance.
The dog has more time to sniff and explore.
The pace may change. The dog may stop often. The route may include different safe surfaces.
For many dogs, this kind of walk can provide both physical activity and mental enrichment.
Does this mean regular walks are bad?
No.
Regular walks can still be a useful part of a dog's routine.
The main idea is that walking does not have to be the only kind of physical activity a dog gets.
Healthy dogs that are appropriate for fitness activities may enjoy a mix of walking, exploring, play, conditioning, aquatic activity, and other forms of movement.
Dogs with pain, injuries, mobility changes, or other medical concerns should be evaluated by their veterinarian before starting a new exercise program.
The main takeaway
A walk does not have to be a workout to be valuable.
Walking can provide movement, exploration, and time together.
For dogs participating in fitness or conditioning, adding safe variety can provide movement experiences that an ordinary walk may not offer.
