Here are 5 benefits of walking your dog.

1. Walking your dog helps him stay active. It will help keep his joints and muscles in shape which is important as he ages. (Be sure to use caution when walking in extremely hot or cold temperatures.)

2. Walking your dog will help him burn calories and stay in shape.

3. Walking your dog helps to stimulate your dog’s brain. His mental health is important too. If he is inside all the time, maybe he’s bored?

4. Walking your dog can help to tire him out so that he sleeps better at night.

5. Walking your dog and getting some exercise is beneficial for you too.

And if you want a 6th reason: because it’s fun and can be relaxing (assuming your dog is trained for leash walking and he likes it.) LOL

Some of you may not know that I have a dog walking business. The greeting I get when I walk into a client’s home, leash up their dog, and take him for a walk might be the highlight of the dog’s day. I know it’s a highlight of mine. I think it makes both of us happy.

I like to think that my dog walks help to clear their minds. It certainly helps mine.

Some of you may have a dog that doesn’t like to go for walks. If that’s the case, try to determine why?

1. Is there a physical reason why the dog doesn’t like to walk? Is he injured?

2. Is the temperature outside uncomfortable for the dog? It’s too hot or too cold? Or it’s raining??

3. Is the dog fearful? Did something traumatic happen to the dog while outside and now he’s afraid?

4. Is he a couch potato?

If you know the reason why your dog doesn’t like to walk, then you can try to work with him to overcome the obstacle. Consult with a professional dog trainer if needed.

This is a blog circle and this week we’re talking about fitness. Next up is I Got the Shot Photography's Elaine Tweedy comments on fitness with your pet options in the Endless Mountains of Northeastern PA. Be sure to click the link at the bottom of the circle and you’ll end up back here when you’re finished. Happy Reading!