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A wagging tail, a pair of eager eyes and pawing at the door…the universal signs that your four-legged friend wants to go for a walk. What we sometimes take for granted is that walking a dog is an amazing opportunity for both human and canine to reap a number of health benefits that extend far beyond the physical steps taken.
Ahead of National Pet Day we’re celebrating the physical, mental and bonding benefits that come along with a walk around the block.
Physical Health:
Regular walks with your dog serve as an excellent form of exercise, benefiting both parties involved. According to the American Heart Association, dog owners are 54% more likely to meet recommended levels of physical activity compared to non-dog owners. Studies have shown that the average dog owner exercises more than the average person with a gym membership. It’s not surprising when you consider:
- Dog owners walk 23 minutes longer per day compared to those without dogs
- 82% of dog owners reported that walking their dog is a primary form of exercise
- The average dog owner will walk their dog over 1,500 miles this year
Emotional Well-being:
The emotional bond between humans and dogs is profound and multifaceted. Taking your dog for a walk further supports that bond by further fostering a sense of companionship. Studies have shown that interacting with pets, including walking them, can lower levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) and increase levels of oxytocin (the love hormone), thereby reducing stress, anxiety, and depression.
Additionally, walking your dog provides opportunities for social interaction. According to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, 60% of dog owners reported that they frequently interact with people when walking their dogs. These interactions can lead to increased feelings of connectedness and belonging.
Mental Health:
Beyond the physical and emotional benefits, walking your dog also has significant implications for mental health. Daily walks can stimulate the release of endorphins, neurotransmitters that promote feelings of happiness and well-being. This natural mood boost can help alleviate symptoms of depression and improve overall mental well-being.
Moreover, the act of walking provides a meditative space for reflection and relaxation. It offers an opportunity to unplug from the constant stimulation of technology and reconnect with the present moment and your dog. In today's fast-paced world, moments of mindfulness are invaluable for maintaining mental clarity and reducing stress.
So the next time you lace up your shoes and leash up your pup, remember that you're not just taking a walk—you're investing in your collective health and happiness, one step at a time.
To celebrate the physical, mental and human-dog bonding benefits of all those walks, we’re partnering with Ever Chew and Little Hunter to give away the ultimate (human) foot care bundle and some well deserved dog treats. Visit us on Instagram between April 4th and April 11th to enter!