Happy National Walk Your Dog Month! To celebrate, we have some fun and useful information about walking your dog! Walking your dog all year round, is great for your dog’s health and your health! Read on for benefits, tips and our favorite spots to walk in and around Lakeville, MA!
Benefits of Regular Walks
Physical Exercise: Regular walks help maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity in dogs. It’s an excellent way to ensure they get the exercise they need.
Mental Stimulation: Walks provide mental stimulation by exposing dogs to new scents, sounds and sights. This helps keep their minds active and engaged.
Behavioral Improvement: Dogs that receive regular walks tend to exhibit better behavior. It can reduce instances of boredom-related behaviors, like excessive barking or chewing.
Socialization: Walking allows dogs to meet other dogs and people, promoting positive social interactions and reducing aggression or fear towards strangers.
Joint Health: Walking is a low-impact exercise that helps maintain joint health. It’s especially beneficial for older dogs or those with arthritis.
Tips for Enjoyable Walks:
Use the Right Equipment: Invest in a comfortable harness and leash. It provides better control and reduces strain on your dog’s neck.
Choose Interesting Routes: Explore different routes to keep things exciting for your dog. Parks, trails and dog-friendly areas are great options.
Bring Water: Keep your dog hydrated, especially on warmer days. Carry a portable water bowl or a water bottle with a built-in bowl.
Allow Sniffing: Dogs explore the world through their noses. Allow them to sniff around during walks; it’s mentally stimulating for them.
Practice Basic Commands: Use walks as an opportunity to reinforce basic commands like sit, stay or heel. It enhances obedience and makes walks safer.
Vary the Pace: Mix up the pace during your walk. Include some brisk walking or short bursts of running to keep your dog physically active.
Pick Up After Your Dog: Always carry waste bags and clean up after your dog. It’s not only courteous, but also important for the environment.
Reward Good Behavior: Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Reward your dog for good behavior during walks with treats or praise.
Local Places to Walk Your Dog:
Long Pond Conservation Area: This conservation area offers scenic trails around Long Pond. It’s a peaceful and beautiful location where you and your dog can enjoy a leisurely walk.
Assawompset Pond Complex: Explore the trails around Assawompset Pond for a tranquil and picturesque walk. The area is known for its natural beauty and is a great place for both you and your dog to enjoy some fresh air.
Ted Williams Camp Conservation Area: With its network of trails, the Ted Williams Camp Conservation Area provides a wonderful setting for dog walks. The diverse terrain and wooded areas offer an enjoyable experience.
Freetown-Fall River State Forest: This nearby state forest is a fantastic spot for hiking with your dog. There are trails and ponds surrounded by lush greenery.
Lakeville Town Forest: The Town Forest in Lakeville features walking trails that wind through the wooded area. It’s a peaceful spot for a quiet walk with your dog.
Betty’s Neck: Betty’s Neck is known for its natural beauty and waterfront views. It’s a scenic location where you and your dog can enjoy a walk along the water.
Pilgrim Park: Pilgrim Park offers a mix of open spaces and walking trails. It’s a great place for a casual stroll with your dog, and there are often community events held here.
Dighton Rock: Has some great peaceful trails that all dogs love! With a variety of different plants to smell and great views of the Taunton River.
Whenever you take your dog for a walk remember to look up if your trail in mind allows dogs and respect the rules of the trail.
So, Happy National Walk Your Dog Month! Taking a dog for a walk can be fun and good for your dog’s health, and even your health! Read here on the health benefits you can get from walking!
While it’s highly recommended to walk your dog often, with work and life, it may not always be possible. That’s where DogTowne can help! One of our at-home Care Coaches can visit your home to walk, feed and play with your dog while you are away. Plus, for the month of January, we’re offering $5 OFF all home care visits! Call or email to book.
We also have plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces for your dog to run and play with friends at our doggy day and night care facility in Lakeville, MA. Contact us now to schedule a free try-out!
