Walking a Dog for Human’s Well-being

According to an English survey in which about 2 thousand dog owners were questioned, most dog owners see walking the dog as a while they have for themselves and relax. What other benefits do walks with dogs have?

In England, dog owners were asked about how they see walking and if time spent outside with a dog has any other benefits for them. The results have shown that 8 out of 10 people sometimes take their dog out just because they want to enjoy some peace and relax. 73 % of the surveyed even considers outdoor activities with their dog as an important tool for reducing stress. 

The overwhelming most of the questioned agree that walking provides them with valuable time for thinking. Almost half of the owners see this “time for themselves” as the best aspect of walking the dog. Every fifth person have even come to an important life decision on a walk – it concerned moving, changing jobs, ending a relationship or starting a family. 

Walking a dog is one of our most important duty with regard to taking care of a furry friend and even though this activity is mainly done for dogs, it becomes clear that it also brings many benefits to us, humans, as well. And it doesn’t only concern our physical condition. 

Forgetting about everyday worries and spending time with a man’s best friend can clear our heads. Thanks to it, we enjoy some time for ourselves which is badly needed. Many of us use walks to think through an important decision well or to relax. A bonus is that long walks together even strengthen our relationship with our dog companion. 

During the survey, the participants were also asked to take their dog for 8 half-hour-long walks within a week and then to share their impressions. Two thirds of them said their mood and mental health improved. And almost all of them stated that they liked going on walks. More than one third of the participants were disappointed when they couldn’t find time for a planned walk.

It is clear that each person has different reasons for walks. It might be about spending some time with one’s family or to spend time with ourselves. Some people enjoy the peace during the walk, some walk the dog to get in a better shape. So it becomes clear that only a few people see walking the dog as a pure duty. It is sure that walking together has positive effects on us.

What about you, do you enjoy walking your dog and take it for long walks as much as you can? Or do you only go outside with your dog so it can pee and go back home?

 

Related articles

How does a dog become a therapist

If you’re thinking about starting canistherapy with your four-legged friend, but you don’t know whether you would manage, here you will find a brief overview of the characteristics your dog is supposed to have and what he should all know.

Cat skin problems

Dermatological problems are one of the most frequent reasons of veterinary visits. Cats often suffer from them as well. A skin problem may appear due to several reasons and you may not notice it immediately. Also because of the time that cats devote to...

How to house a rabbit

If you’re thinking about getting a rabbit, maybe you will find handy a bit of advice how to house him at home. A rabbit has certain needs as any other animal and it’s up to us, the owners, to make its life as comfortable as possible.

5 basic tips for camping with a dog

Holiday time is approaching fast and maybe you’re considering where to go with your four-legged friend. If you’d like to go camping, there are certainly many things you should consider. You have to plan and pack not only for yourself, but also for your...

Treibball - When the Dog Herds a Balloon

This is really what this sport is about – herding balloons. The aim is the same as for herding sheep, get all the balls into the gate. And do not be mistaken, treiball is not only for herding dogs. You can do this sport with dogs of any race, size and...