Going for a daily walk is a chance to bond with your doggo and is highly rewarding for both of you. But, let’s face it, sometimes finding the mojo to take your dog for a walk can be a bit of a struggle. But fear not! In this article, we’ll go through 11 realistic ways to keep yourself keen and make dog walking a great experience for you and your pup.
Now this first tip is our favourite, and if nothing else will help motivate you to go for a decent length walk and bring some joy, this will.
Use Music: You already know that everything is better with a decent mix track! So, find a great hour long music playlist to keep the activity upbeat and fun! (Like this one that we created – you can find it on Spotify!)
- Remind Yourself How Much it Means to Your Dog: Your dog depends on you for their daily walks, and their sheer excitement when it’s walkies time is heart warming. Going for a walk isn’t just a bit of exercise for them; it’s a chance to explore and take in the world. Show a bit of empathy for your doggo’s perspective, and you’ll find it easier to make their daily walk the main event.
- Stay Active for Your Health and Your Dog’s: Walking your dog is great for their health, but it’s an easy way to improve your own too! Regular exercise is great for a longer and healthier life for both you and your four-legged mate. So instead of thinking it’s a chore, think of it as a free way to keep fit and healthy together.
- Practice Training on Your Walk: Dog walks can be a blast! Use the time to practice training exercises and teach your dog some impulse control. Training in different environments, like outside with distractions, can give your furry mate’s brain a workout and make them a real champion at following your commands.
- Make it an Adventure by Exploring New Places: No need to walk the same old track like a sheep! Mix things up by exploring new places once or twice a week. Change up the usual routine and visit nearby parks, waterways, or trails to make each walk feel like a real-life adventure. The look of excitement on your doggo’s face when they discover new scents and sights will be worth it!
- Invite a Friend or Family to Join You: We are all so time poor, so turn your dog walks into a social gathering by inviting your mates or family to tag along. A bit of a conversation while walking can make an unenjoyable walk speed by. Plus, your dog will love the extra attention!
- Set Short and Long-Term Goals: Challenge yourself! Set some goals for your dog walks. Start with little targets, like walking every day for a week, and then build up to more challenging ones. Having goals to work towards keeps you motivated, and reaching them will make you feel accomplished and organised.
- Find Dog Walking Buddies: Now this one takes a little extra effort. Team up with other dog owners in your area. Join local dog walking groups and make new friends while walking your dogs. Having dog walking buddies can make the experience more enjoyable and help you stick to your walking routine.
- Use Apps: Get tech-savvy with dog walking! Use fitness tracking apps or devices to monitor your steps, distance, or time spent walking with your dog.
- Reward Yourself and Your Dog: You’ve earned it! After a successful dog walk, treat yourself and your doggo to something special, like a coffee date. Enjoy the downtime with your dog to celebrate your achievements and create a positive association with walks.
- Document Your Walks: Keep a photo or video journal of your dog walks. Capture the funny moments, beautiful sights, and precious memories along the way. Looking back at these memories will remind you of the joy and fulfilment that dog walks bring.
- Seek Support from a Dog Trainer or Dog Walking Service: Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you’re finding it tough to stay motivated, consider getting support from a dog trainer or a dog walking service.
So, that’s it!
Get to walkin’.
Petsecure. (2023). 7 ways to motivate yourself to go for a dog walk. Retrieved from https://www.petsecure.com.au/pet-care/7-tips-dog-walk-motivation/
- Positive Changes Dog Training. (2020). 5 ways to motivate yourself for a dog walk. Retrieved from https://www.positivechangesdogtraining.com/blog/5-ways-to-motivate-yourself-for-a-dog-wa/
