Those of us who live in the Northeast are no stranger to spells of bitter cold along with sheets of ice covering the roads and sidewalks in winter. Many people simply don’t walk their dogs for a good chunk of the year here in Maine because they don’t like being out in the cold. Does this sound like you? Is your dog overexcitable? Does he misbehave or not listen to you? While it is easy for we humans to hunker down on the couch until spring, this can be very detrimental to the overall mental and behavioral heath of your dog. Dogs need exercise regularly all year round to be happy and fulfilled.
Walks are crucially important for your dog in multiple ways:
- Dogs are pack animals and have an instinctual need to travel with their group. They thrive on it. Have you ever met a dog that does not get excited to take a walk? Thought not.
- Controlled leash walking helps to establish you as the obvious leader to your dog while teaching impulse control. Regularly walked dogs listen better to their people, are more contented and are healthier.
- Dogs were not created to lie on a couch all day. They need a way to release their natural energy.
- Dogs who are not regularly walked often have difficulty handling new situations. They can become very reactive and territorial. The simple act of a stroll in your neighborhood gently exposes your dog to different people, other dogs, scary trucks, etc.
- Regular walks eases the boredom and frustration that often results in destructive and hyper behavior.
- Exercising together builds the bond with your dog and fights depression.
Embrace winter with your dog! Invest in some ice cleats for your walking shoes. Find a warm coat, hat and gloves and get out there!
If you can’t beat it, join it!
