subject: Why walking your dog is beneficial to you [print this page] Sometimes walking your dog may seem more like a chore rather than something you enjoy and now there are even companies that will walk your dog for you. If you decide not to walk your dog you are really losing out on some beneficial opportunities. By walking your dog you are burning calories, getting your blood floating and releasing endorphins into your system. Not only will you be creating a healthier you but you are also exercising your dog which will lead to a calmer, less destructive dog.
Most people find it hard to find time to go to the gym, a bike ride or a run. But, walking your dog can take as long or little as you want it to and it's an easy way to burn calories. Even if you are only able to walk for 5 minutes you are burning 5 minutes worth of calories and over time they will add up to a significant amount. To burn even more calories you can try adding in some jogging or running in between periods of walking, given that you dog is able to keep up with you. As long as you look at walking your dog as more of a benefit to you rather than a chore or favor to your dog, you will slowly begin to enjoy the walks. Once the endorphins hit you after your exercise walk you will begin to enjoy the post feeling.
The best benefit will be the change in your dog's behavior. If you have a very hyper active dog that seems to have more energy than you can deal with, chances are you need to exercise your dog more often. Dogs are just like humans and they need to release their energy any way possible. If you do not walk your dog they can burn that energy by destroying your garden, chewing up toys, or cushions, or they can even turn aggressive. Taking your dog for daily walks is an easy to solution to some bad habits that dogs will find themselves getting into when trying to burn their energy.
Burning calories, becoming healthier, and a relaxed, calmer dog are reason enough for most people to begin walking their dogs daily. The best way to find out if it will be beneficial to your life style is to give it a try and see if you are able to obtain positive results.
