What are the Best Times to Walk a Dog? 

Dogs get maximum health benefits by taking a walk every day. The walks help enhance the dog’s activeness and minimises the chances of cardiovascular diseases. Veterinarians and pet trainers say that walking your dog frequently has numerous health benefits and enhances the bond between the owner and the pet. Some owners that work long hours during the day enlist the services of a professional dog day care business, such as Orpington-based Boni Dogs.

Many people wonder what would be the best time to take a dog for a walk. Another question most pet owners ask is how often one should take the dog out for a walk. The choice you make primarily depends on the breed of the pet and age. Younger pets have different exercise requirements than older ones. 

Factors that Affect Exercise Requirements for Your Dog

Dog’s Breed

Highly active dogs such as German shepherds and huskies require more exercise than small dogs such as poodles. Not engaging them in the rigorous exercise of at least two hours can lead to weight gain and develop unwanted traits due to high levels of boredom. 

Tiny breeds such as poodle and Maltese will only need 20 minutes of exercising each day. These types of pets have shorter limbs, so it is important not to overwork them when exercising. Other dogs that do not require prolonged walking exercise include bulldogs. Dog Tired: Avoid Over-Exercising Your Dog | Oakland Veterinary Referral  Services

Dog’s Personality

The dog’s personality is an essential factor to consider when taking it outside for a walk. Like human beings, dogs can also be shy. For shy dogs, consider taking them out early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid meeting with other dogs. It is best to avoid taking them on walks in crowded areas. 

Social dogs love to meet new faces; hence it is best to walk them out during walk-peak hours. Such times include afternoon or evening when other dog owners are taking their pets out. Young dogs also require peak walking hours to socialize and improve their interaction skills. 

Most Preferred Times to take your Dog out For a Walk

Morning

Early mornings are best for both older dogs and puppies. They need to relieve themselves first thing in the morning to avoid doing it in the wrong places. It also improves the dog’s mood for the day. It improves the behaviour of the dog throughout the day hence performing exceptionally during training. 

During cold seasons avoid taking old dogs out in the morning. Cold weather can lead to arthritis and joint stiffness, making the dog unable to walk. 

Evening

Evenings are the best times for taking dogs out. Most people take out their dogs during this period making it the best time for social dogs. During this time, puppies can meet up with other dogs and interact with the thing happening around the town. 

Evenings are not best for those living near busy roads. It is due to the heavy traffic as people try to get home from work. Loud noises might scare away puppies. 

Afternoon

The afternoon is the best time to walk an older pet, especially during the winter seasons. Temperatures during this time are favourable during the cold seasons. It is important to note that it can also be the worst period during the summer seasons. Large dogs and hairy breeds are likely to suffer from heatstrokes when taken out. When taking your dog out during these times, ensure that you dress it in the right gear to avoid paw burns. 

Night Time

Night walks are best for small puppies. It helps improve the sleep pattern and prevent them from rambling in the night. Nights are also best during the summer seasons since the temperatures are cooler. It makes it suitable for long-haired dogs to take their walk. Nights are also quiet and relaxing. Ensure you dress yourself and the pet with reflective gears to make yourself visible to motorists. 

Dog walkers at Howard University infringe on 'black Mecca', students say |  Washington DC | The GuardianSafety Tips When Taking your Dog out for a Walk

Consult with your pet’s doctor

It is important to get clearance from a veterinarian if your dog is ready to start taking a walk. The expert will run some tests to check whether the pet has any health issues. It is also important for older dogs that you check up for ailments such as joint stiffness and arthritis. 

Use proper equipment

To control your dog’s movement, ensure that you tie it to a sturdy leash. It helps prevent the dog from disturbing pedestrians and other road users. It also controls the dog from accessing restricted pet areas. Off-leash exercise is only possible in play areas such as dog parks. For aggressive dogs, it is important to put on a muzzle to prevent them from harming other pets or people.

Carry water

During hot weather, it is best to carry water both for you and the dog. It helps keep you hydrated during the walk. It also helps the body cool down. Please do not give the dog energy drinks since they are not suitable for pets due to high levels of caffeine. 

Carry Identification

It is important to carry identification documents to avoid problems with authority. The dog’s identification should indicate the vaccination schedule of the dog. 

From the discussion, it is clear that there is no best or worst time to take your pet out. It is best to study the dog and decide on the best time to take it out. Ensure that you follow the preventive measures for you to have an amazing walk together with your pet.