The 1 Thing Every Dog Owner Should Do With Their Pet On A Walk

A Huffington Post article explains why allowing your dog to sniff freely during walks is crucial for their mental and physical well-being, enriching their lives and strengthening your bond.The following is a brief summary of the article, which you can read in full here.

While it might be tempting to rush them along, especially when you're in a hurry, allowing your dog to sniff freely can provide them with significant mental stimulation and enrichment. Dr. Whitney Miller, chief veterinarian at Petco, explains that sniffing is a beneficial sensory experience for dogs, helping them assess their surroundings and gain information about their environment.

Dr. Danielle Bernal, global veterinarian at Wellness Pet Company, adds that sniffing offers dogs the opportunity to recognize other animals, make decisions, and stay updated on their surroundings. This natural behavior also helps reduce stress levels and promotes optimism in dogs, particularly older pups who benefit from engaging their bodies and minds when physical activity decreases.

To enhance your dog's sniffing experiences, you can incorporate snuffle mats, puzzle toys, and games where you hide treats around the house. These activities keep your dog mentally engaged and offer them a way to explore and satisfy their natural instincts even when they can't venture outdoors.