People aren’t the only ones who need exercise. Many dog health experts agree that walking your pooch every day is one of the best ways to ensure health and longevity. And that doesn’t just mean a quick potty trip. Dogs that are normal couch potatoes can suffer from the same health ailments as humans. Walking your dog every day can help maintain weight, keep joints healthy, and promote digestive and urinary health. And, like with humans, the benefits of exercise for a dog are not just physical, but mental as well. Think of it this way, happy, less anxious dogs are less likely to tear up your entire couch while you’re at work.
But how often should you take your dog for a walk? Tractive says you should let your dog run for at least 15 minutes at least three to four times a day (Rover says 30 minutes to two hours a day). This can vary based on your puppy’s breed, age, and health, as well as your puppy’s eating habits. Smaller dogs may need fewer walks, while larger, higher-energy breeds may need more.
But should daily walks really be necessary to own a dog? Some of the numbers on MyPetNeeds that might surprise you. According to a poll posted on their website, 40% of New Yorkers felt that daily walks should be necessary to own a dog. According to this survey, this is slightly above the national average. For comparison, 38% of New Jerseyans and 36% of Pennsylvanians said this should be necessary so we were pretty close to our neighbors. However, Masashcusteet had the lowest percentage in the nation, with only 9% of residents asked to say yes.
Vermont, New Hampshire, and Mississippi, all in the first place, with 50% saying dog walking should be required on a daily basis. It may sound a little far-fetched (no pun), and a mandate like this may not be getting passed here in the United States anytime soon, but it is starting in other parts of the world. In 2020, the Federal Minister of Food and Agriculture proposed an animal protection ordinance, according to which dogs “are allowed to train outside a kennel for at least one hour at least twice a day”. The proposal sharply divided citizens.
Some may disagree and feel like they often walk their own dog. However, according to these recent polls, more New Yorkers are agreeing to required dog walks over essential alcohol. Hmmm.
