6 Ways to Spice Up Your Dogs Daily Walk

Feeling stuck in a walking rut? Does your furry companion still brim with energy even after your regular walks? If so, it might be time to inject some variety and enrichment into your routine. But fret not! With just a few simple options, you can revitalize your walks and keep both you and your dog engaged and satisfied.

Disclaimer: I am not a professional trainer, the tips and experiences I share are based on my personal experience and what has worked for us. If you have specific concerns please reach out to a certified veterinarian or behaviorist for expert guidance.

Now, let’s dive into how we infuse a dash of excitement and training into our walks with Poppy.

Let Poppy Pick our Path: Some walks I relinquish control and let Poppy lead the way. When Poppy gets to pick our path it allows her to explore new scents and is an easy way to include some additional mental stimulation on our outing.

Focused Heel: While I don’t expect Poppy to walk in a focused heel constantly, incorporating it into our walks serves as excellent mental stimulation. It’s also an opportunity for her to practice obedience and impulse control, enhancing her overall responsiveness and engagement.

1-2-3 Game: Taught to us by our amazing trainer Ms. Alicia, the 1-2-3 game is a favorite for both Poppy and me. I count to three while Poppy maintains eye contact, after hitting 3 Poppy gets a treat. This is a great way to reinforce focus and obedience during our walks, and a helpful tool when we come across behavioral triggers for Poppy such as other dogs.

Pace Change: Keeping Poppy on her toes, I occasionally switch up our pace mid-walk. Whether it’s a sudden burst of speed or a leisurely stroll, it challenges Poppy to stay attuned to my movements throughout our walk.

Auto-Sit: To keep Poppy sharp and attentive, we play the Auto-Sit game. As we walk, I’ll halt suddenly, prompting Poppy to sit beside me. It’s a simple yet effective way to reinforce her training and ensure she’s focused on me.

Practice Basic Commands: While strolling, I seize opportunities to reinforce fundamental commands like “Around” or “Step-Up” whenever the surroundings permit. This consistent practice in diverse environments strengthens Poppy’s command comprehension and responsiveness.

By incorporating these playful yet purposeful activities into our walks, we’re not only enriching Poppy’s mental and physical well-being but also strengthening our bond as walking companions.

Every step becomes an opportunity for learning, training, and, most importantly, enjoying each other’s company. So, the next time you leash up your furry friend, consider adding a sprinkle of excitement to your stroll—it’s sure to make tails wag and hearts happy.

Share Your Experience:
Feeling inspired to spice up your walks? Share your favorite tips, tricks, or experiences in the comments below! Let’s swap ideas and keep our furry companions’ walks exciting and enriching.