Why Every Dog Needs a Daily Walk: The Key to Health and Happiness

June
Dec 24, 2024
8 min read

Hi, I’m June! If you’ve been following along, you know how much I love my walks. And trust me, walks are not just about going out for some fresh air—they’re essential for my health, my happiness, and, let’s be honest, for keeping my paws in top shape! Whether I'm strolling through the busy streets of Bangalore or quietly trotting through the park, my daily walk is a key part of my well-being.

Let me take you through the science behind why these walks are so important for both me and my fellow pups. And I’m not just talking about the "let’s go for a walk" excitement—I’m talking real, paw-some benefits.

Why Walks Are Essential for Me (and for You!)

Physical Exercise and Weight Management
Imagine if I just lounged around all day, ate treats, and didn’t get any exercise. That wouldn’t be good for me at all! Just like you, I need exercise to stay fit, avoid getting too "fluffy," and maintain a healthy weight. As active Shih Tzus, J'adore and I thrive on regular walks. While Shih Tzus are typically known for being lap dogs, we're both quite energetic and need our daily dose of exercise.
Despite being small lap dogs, Shih Tzus still require regular physical activity to keep fit and prevent obesity. J'adore and I typically need around 1-1.5 hours of exercise a day, which we achieve through two 20-30 minute walks each day. I sometimes sneak in a third walk at night because I prefer to do my business outside after I’ve walked a bit.
According to a 2017 study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, regular physical activity helps prevent obesity and related health problems like diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. A brisk 20-minute walk can burn anywhere between 50-100 calories, depending on the speed, which makes those walks essential to keeping us fit and healthy.
Mental Stimulation and Reduced Anxiety
Walks are my version of "me time." When I’m out sniffing everything in sight, I’m getting some serious mental stimulation. And believe me, it’s not just about being nosy sniffing is like my brain’s workout. My sense of smell is around 40 times stronger than yours, thanks to having up to 300 million scent receptors in my nose (you’ve got about 5-6 million). When I sniff plants, trees, or even that random patch of grass, it helps keep my brain sharp and calm. It’s like me getting a little mental "spa treatment" every time we walk.
Dr. Stanley Coren, a renowned canine psychologist, explains that sniffing is a vital part of a dog’s cognitive function. In his book The Intelligence of Dogs, Dr. Coren points out that dogs use their noses to engage with the environment, and this mental stimulation helps alleviate anxiety and reduces the likelihood of behavioural problems. During our walks, I get to enjoy all the sights and smells, but J'adore and I also have our preferences. J'adore loves sniffing different plants, grass, and flowers—he's basically a botanical expert on paws! As for me, I’m slowly beginning to appreciate the joys of sniffing the flowers, but I’m far more interested in watching birds flit around in the sky. Oh, and don’t get me started on the cats—every walk turns into a chase when I spot one!
Socialization and Behavioural Benefits
Walking isn’t just for exercise; it’s also my chance to socialize. I’m pretty keen on meeting other dogs (I’m not shy at all), and it's a great way for me to learn proper doggy manners. On the other hand, J'adore loves to meet people. I mean, he’s the life of the sidewalk! Walks are an excellent way for us to build confidence and learn how to behave around other animals and humans. This is particularly important for urban dogs like us, who need to be comfortable in busy environments.
Regular walks help me meet new friends—whether people or dogs—and that’s crucial for reducing any anxiety I might have around new situations. If I didn’t get my daily dose of socializing, I’d be a little nervous around strangers. But after a few encounters on my walks, I feel much more relaxed around everyone! J'adore, on the other hand, thrives when he gets to meet new people. He’s basically a four-legged social butterfly.
Health Benefits
You know how important it is for you to stay active—well, the same goes for me. Regular exercise helps prevent a range of health problems like heart disease, joint issues, and obesity. Walking is fantastic for my joints, reducing the risk of arthritis and other age-related issues. In fact, walking keeps my joints limber and strong. It’s like giving my body the support it needs to keep moving without slowing down.
A study published in Veterinary Record by the British Veterinary Association (2019) found that dogs who are regularly exercised have a 20% lower risk of developing heart disease. It also emphasizes that keeping dogs active through walking and other forms of exercise helps maintain their muscle tone and keeps them mobile longer. The same study shows that exercise is essential for dogs of all ages, including young, active dogs like J'adore and me, as well as senior dogs with arthritis. Walking is like a magic potion for healthy joints and a strong heart—whether you're a sprightly pup or an aging dog.
The Mental Health Boost for You Too!
Believe it or not, walks are just as good for you as they are for me! Studies show that dog owners who walk their dogs regularly experience lower stress levels, reduced anxiety, and improved moods. So, when we go for our daily walk, we’re both benefiting from the fresh air, physical activity, and the special bond we share.
According to a study published by the University of Bristol in 2020, dog owners who walk their dogs report significantly higher levels of physical and mental well-being. The study concludes that dog walking provides important social and emotional benefits for both the dog and the human. After a long day of work or errands, I love nothing more than seeing my human light up when it’s time to get moving. Walks can make both of us feel more relaxed, so we’re both getting some serious mental health benefits while I’m burning off those extra calories. It’s a win-win!

How Often Should We Walk in India?

The frequency and intensity of walks can vary depending on factors such as breed, age, health, and activity level. Since J'adore and I are both relatively young active Shih Tzus (I’m 3.5 years old, and he’s 2.5 years old), we have lots of energy to burn, and our daily walks are crucial for staying fit and happy. Here’s a breakdown of how much exercise different types of dogs need:

Small Breeds and Lap Dogs (like J'adore and me): While Shih Tzus are generally classified as lap dogs, we’re far from lazy! Despite our small size, we still need regular exercise to stay healthy, around 1-1.5 hours of exercise per day. This is typically achieved through two 20–30-minute walks, with an occasional third walk if we feel extra energetic. Small dogs like us need our walks to help maintain weight, prevent boredom, and ensure we stay active. Regular exercise also helps us stay sharp mentally and socially, preventing behavioural issues.
Older Dogs and Senior Dogs: As dogs age, their exercise needs change, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need regular walks. Senior dogs, like older humans, can experience stiffness, joint pain, and lower energy levels. However, maintaining a low-impact exercise routine is key to keeping them healthy and preventing obesity-related problems. Senior dogs typically need shorter, slower walks, around 20-30 minutes per walk, but regular, gentle exercise helps keep them mobile for longer.
Puppies and High-Energy Breeds: Puppies, especially those of high-energy breeds like Labradors, Retrievers, and Beagles, need more exercise to release their pent-up energy. However, puppy exercise must be balanced with their age and developmental stage. Over-exercising puppies can lead to joint and bone problems, particularly in larger breeds. Puppies generally need less intense exercise, especially in their early months. It’s important to keep their walks shorter (around 15-20 minutes), focusing on light walks and socialization.

In India, where temperatures can rise dramatically, it’s crucial to adjust your walking schedule to avoid the heat of the day. Dogs, especially those with thick coats or short snouts, can be more susceptible to heatstroke, so it’s best to avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day. Early morning or evening walks are perfect for us.

The Ideal Way to Walk Me: Best Practices

Not all walks are the same! Here’s how we should do it:

Keep a Comfortable Pace: J'adore and I might not always be in a rush (unless we spot a cat). Some days I’m up for a relaxed pace, and on others, I’ll run circles around you! Just keep it comfortable and let us lead the way at our pace.
Let Us Sniff: I know, I know—it’s tempting to hurry us along, but sniffing is essential for our mental well-being. It’s our way of exploring the world, so let us take our time! J'adore likes to sniff plants, while I’m obsessed with watching birds soar high. Trust me, I’m getting my mental workout in those moments.
Hydrate and Rest: We both need water—especially in the heat. And while we're happy to keep moving, we’ll take a break if needed. No need to rush use—we're just enjoying the walk!

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Walks aren’t just for exercise—they’re a vital part of our daily routine. They keep us fit, healthy, happy, and mentally sharp. And let’s face it, we both know that there’s nothing better than the joy of a walk. Whether it’s J'adore meeting people, me chasing after birds, or both of us trying to catch a cat, it’s an adventure every time.

Next time you grab the leash, remember it’s not just a walk. It’s exercise, socialization, stress relief, and a whole lot of fun—for both of us!

References:

Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition – “Prevalence of Obesity in Dogs and Its Effects on Health.”
The Pet Health Network – “The Benefits of Sniffing for Dogs.”
The American Kennel Club (AKC) – “The Importance of Walking Your Dog.”
The Hindustan Times – “Dog Walking Tips for Indian Pet Owners.”
British Veterinary Association – “Exercise and Health in Dogs.”
The Pet Health Network – “How Sniffing Helps Reduce Dog Anxiety.”
Coren, S. The Intelligence of Dogs. New York: Free Press, 1994.

Why every dog needs a walk: Discover the crucial benefits of daily walks for your dog's health, happiness, and well-being.