Not all walks are created equal. We might think that a walk is a walk, but often what we think of as a good walk, isn't necessarily the best we can do for them. Dogs benefit greatly from regular walks that cater to their natural needs and behaviours.

Providing opportunities for offlead/long line exploration if possible, sniffing, and allowing your dog the ability to make choices during their walks can contribute to their happiness and wellbeing.

It's important to allow dogs to engage in natural behaviours such as sniffing and seeking, while also offering a variety of experiences such as different environments, surfaces, and interactions.

Additionally, giving dogs breaks from interactions with other dogs and people, and observing and responding to their cues during walks, can contribute to a more enriching and beneficial walking experience for them.

Walks are for your dog's benefit as well as yours, so take cues from them whenever it's appropriate and try to provide a range of enriching experiences. Try to think outside the box! There are lots of ways to provide enrichment and exercise to your dog.

My name is Naomi Andrews and I run We Teach Pets. I am a Clinical Animal Behaviourist specialising in anxiety related behaviour in dogs. I see cases in Worcestershire and surrounding areas, or remote consultations in any location!

I work with people 1:1 or you can check out my freebies and self paced courses. Find out more here: https://www.weteachpets.com