WHY NATURE WALKS
A walk through the woods gives dogs room to move and investigate new scents. For dogs who enjoy company, it can also offer time alongside compatible dogs.
In a two-week study, pet dogs that practiced nosework approached an ambiguous cue faster afterward, a result the researchers interpreted as a more positive judgment bias. Dogs that practiced heelwork showed no comparable change. The study tested structured scent work, and it offers a reason to make time for scent exploration on walks.
Read the study by Duranton & Horowitz (2019)Outdoor walks give dogs a chance to move, sniff, and investigate their surroundings. A wooded route offers a variety of scents and places to pause. We choose the type of outing with your dog’s comfort and pace in mind.
Read VCA Animal Hospitals’ guide to sniffing walksThe RSPCA notes that a dog’s experiences shape how they respond to other dogs. For dogs who are comfortable around compatible companions, a group walk gives them time together outdoors. A private walk gives dogs who prefer space the same chance to explore.
Read the RSPCA’s dog welfare report (PDF)LET’S TALK DOGS
Tell us a little about your dog and we’ll talk through the right walk together.
