We’re constantly told that dogs need more exercise.
Got a reactive dog? Walk them more.
Dog seems restless? Longer walks.
Struggling with behaviour? Tire them out.
But what if that extra walk is actually adding to the problem?
For dogs who find the outside world difficult, a walk isn’t necessarily relaxing exercise. It can mean traffic, unfamiliar people, other dogs, sudden noises, narrow pavements and one stressful encounter after another.
And every one of those experiences can add something to your dog’s emotional bucket.
When that bucket becomes too full, something seemingly insignificant can cause it to overflow. Suddenly your dog is barking, lunging, pulling or struggling to cope, and we wonder why they’ve reacted so strongly.
The answer might not be what just happened.
It might be everything that happened beforehand.
In this week’s episode of Paws and Pawsitivity, I challenge the assumption that more walks automatically mean a happier, better-behaved dog.
We explore trigger stacking, arousal and emotional recovery, why a tired dog isn’t necessarily a regulated dog, and why sometimes a shorter walk, a quieter environment or even a rest day can be exactly what your dog needs.
Because your dog doesn’t get bonus points for kilometres.
Sometimes more isn’t better. Better is better.
If you know somebody who feels guilty about shortening or occasionally skipping their anxious or reactive dog’s walk, please share this episode with them.
For personalised, force-free support with separation anxiety, visit www.pta.dog.
Guiding paws, one step at a time.
If you’re ready to level up your dog’s training, hit that play button and join me for this exciting episode of Paws and Pawsitivity! 🐾
🎧 Listen to the full episode now!
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Enrich Your Dog’s Day, Every Day
Before you go, treat your pup to something special. K9 Connectables offers mental stimulation and enrichment that aligns perfectly with a force-free training lifestyle. Because a tired dog isn’t always a happy one – but a fulfilled dog is.
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It’s one small change that can make a big difference, starting today.
