Is it the dog's walk or yours?

We are finally into summer and the weather is perfect for taking your dog for a walk! But whose walk is it? Is your dog getting the most out of your walks? There are so many benefits when we get out there and enjoy nature with our pets...physical exercise is just the beginning. If we take the time to slow down and enjoy our time together, it allows our friends time for mental stimulation.

Did you know that a 30 minute "sniffari" is equivalent to an hour long brisk walk? If your time is short, you can still get in a very stimulating walk for a happier, more content and relaxed dog.

Studies show that a sniffing walk lowers a dog's pulse rate, promotes calmness and reduces stress by lowering cortisol levels.

Walks are an important outlet for natural behavior. Giving your dog the freedom to choose when they stop and what they sniff improves a dog's self confidence and allows them to feel more in control of their environment.

Keeping a dog mentally stimulated will require them to interpret the information they are getting from sniffing and helps reduce cognitive decline in older dogs. 

So, get out there!  Explore your neighborhood and let your dog sniff it up! Time passes fast enough, slow it down and enjoy your time together with a "sniffari" hosted by your favorite walking partner!