Everyone is so excited to get a dog for companionship. Dogs are such gifts and help us laugh and see life in a different way. They love without expecting much back. They are resilient. They 'make do" when they are in situations that are not ideal. However, this does not mean they don't have wants or needs and would thrive in a different situation!
A lot of rescues ask that the dog go to a home with a yard. Many people who get dogs have a yard. While having a yard is great, it is becoming a crutch for humans. Humans let their dogs out to do their business, and they think that their needs have been met. The physical needs have been met, but so much more is lacking. Allow me to explain.
If you never take your dog out on long walks, they miss out on many important things. For one, they do not get a sense of place. They know their home and that's it. They do not know what is surrounding them. A walk is more than exercise. It is a way to get to know their animal neighbors. They get clues from nature too. They learn the environment and understand what is normal for the area and what is not. Without these walks, your dog is left in the dark. This leads to some behavioral issues. Without these "adventures", your dog is basically living in a big cage. They are not getting stimulated. They are not being allowed to utilize their natural abilities of scent and taste.
A walk also provides adventure. Talk your dog on walks going in different directions. Notice how when they walk the usual route, they behave confidently. Their posture is different, more upright, and strong. When you go a new route, they walk slower, sniff more, and appear less confident. They need new things. Imagine if you only saw your 4 walls and one block. You would get bored. Boredom leads to bad behavior or worse, depression.
It is not fun to walk in the bitter cold or to get up every morning and get dressed to walk the dog. But I can tell you from experience, that once you get going it feels great. More than that, the joy it brings to your companion is worth every step. Speaking of which, you get your steps in if you regularly walk your companion! It is a win-win situation.
Walking your dog regularly is also a great bonding exercise. They appreciate the time and enjoy seeing things with their human! It also allows them to meet other dogs. Dogs need to know how to "dog". You cannot expect them to know what to do if they are never meeting other dogs! Each time will get easier if you allow them to correct each other and make friends. Not every dog will like every dog. But they will like some and those friendships are important. You can always hire a trainer to help your companion with introductions if you are fearful or uncertain.
If you have a yard, please consider using it for emergencies (2 am poop attack) and for playtime; but, take your dog out for regular walks. The schedule will help their digestive systems too. Why walk dogs? Better digestion and health. More exercise. Enrichment opportunities. More friendships. Another huge reason is that if your dog escapes the home, knowing the neighborhood will help them find their way back to you. Oh yea! You get your exercise step in as well!
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