If you’re a dog owner, you’ll know that every month is walk your dog month; our canine friends need regular exercise all year round! But during January – with the enjoyment of Christmas a distant memory, the cold weather continuing, and those dreaded January blues to deal with – it can be tempting to put off walking your dog.
Walking your dog can bring benefits for both of you, which can be especially important in January, so our advice is to embrace this time of year.
Exercise
Many of us will have indulged over Christmas, and our waistlines may be showing the effects of one too many mince pies. Regular walks with your dog can help to combat December’s Christmas indulgence without the need to hit the gym. Weight management is important for your dog too, and walks are a good way of helping to regulate their weight alongside a healthy diet.
Mental wellbeing
Getting out and about can be good for your mental wellbeing as it takes you away from the stresses of everyday life. With time to process your thoughts, the effect of your dog’s excitable happiness when they realise it’s time for walkies, and the shared camaraderie and exchanges with other dog walkers will leave you feeling brighter, more enthusiastic and less anxious.
Fresh air
If you’ve been spending time indoors with windows closed and the heating on, you may have forgotten just how good it feels to get some fresh air. Breathing deeply can clear your lungs, unblock a congested nose, give you more energy and focus your mind. It’s good for lowering heart rate and blood pressure too.
Plus, being outside gives your dog chance to be a dog! Dogs love sniffing out scents and exploring; so, while it may not be the fresh air they’re breathing in, they’ll appreciate the benefits it brings. It will also aid their food digestion, and energy levels.
Technology downtime
If you’re guilty of spending a lot of time on your mobile phone, games console, or watching box sets on TV, going outside can be a welcome distraction. Take in your local area, absorb your surroundings, and enjoy living in the moment. Spend time focussing purely on your dog; run around the park with them or take a ball to play fetch. They’ll appreciate your attention. Your tech will still be there when you get back.
Ensure you stay safe by reminding yourselves of our tips for walking your dog at this time of year, here.
Now grab that lead, put on your warm coat, and off you go!
