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Benefits of walking for dogs and their humans

Introduction

There are many benefits of dog walking, not just for our canine companions but also for you humans too! May is National Walking Month, but for most of us dedicated dog owners, every month is walking month!

What better time to highlight the benefits of walking for both you and your dog, according to science.

Benefits for Dogs’ Welfare

Dog walking1. Mental Stimulation Through Sniffing

Dogs experience the world primarily through scent (1). Sniffing during walks provides crucial mental enrichment and can reduce stress and anxiety. One study showed that dogs allowed to sniff freely had lower heart rates and displayed more optimistic behaviours (2)

2. Emotional Regulation and Predictability

Routine walks offer dogs predictability, which helps lower chronic stress. Repetitive, predictable activities support emotional regulation, integral for a species that thrives on routine. This is evident from research after the COVID-19 Lockdown which found dogs behaviour was significantly disrupted by the change in routine (3).

3. Movement That Matches Their Needs

Instead of focusing on mileage, walk frequency and pace should reflect your dog’s individual needs, age, and physical condition. Sudden long walks after a sedentary week (e.g., a 3-hour weekend hike) can increase the risk of soft tissue injuries, particularly in unfit or older dogs (4).

Benefits of dog walking4. Behaviour is Communication

Reactivity, pulling, or hesitation on walks are often expressions of emotional discomfort, not disobedience. Understanding your dog’s body language and stress signals can deepen trust and improve the walking experience for both of you (5).

5. Spring Safety

This time of year, dogs should be kept on lead near livestock, nesting birds, and baby wildlife. Protecting the wider ecosystem is an ethical part of dog ownership and supports a One Welfare approach.

Benefits for Humans: Physical, Emotional and Social Wellbeing

Tattooed woman smiling in the car with 2 dogs1. Physical Health

Dog owners are more likely to meet recommended physical activity levels (6). Regular walking has been shown to improve cardiovascular health, aid weight management, and reduce risk of chronic diseases (7). 

2. Mental Health and Stress Reduction

Walking with dogs can lower cortisol levels and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression (8). Dogs act as social facilitators and emotional buffers, especially during stressful events.

Woman wearing headphone kissing a cockapoo3. Strengthened Human-Animal Bond

Walks offer a consistent opportunity for shared activity and attunement, deepening your connection. This co-regulation of emotions supports both the dog’s and human’s emotional wellbeing.

4. Social Connection

Dog walking increases incidental social interaction and can help reduce feelings of loneliness. It’s a gateway to community belonging and stronger neighbourhood ties (9). 

Conclusion

A dog walk is more than just physical exercise, it’s a welfare-supporting, relationship-building, health-promoting ritual for both dogs and their humans. This National Walking Month, try to shift your mindset: less about control or burning energy, and more about curiosity, connection, and care.

I am part of an amazing group of canine professionals who are all passionate about dog welfare. 

Read more about this topic from The Finchley Dog Walker below:

https://www.finchleydogwalker.co.uk/how-the-weather-affects-dog-walks.html 

References

  1. Kokocińska-Kusiak, A., Woszczyło, M., Zybala, M., Maciocha, J., Barłowska, K. and Dzięcioł, M. (2021), Canine Olfaction: Physiology, Behavior, and Possibilities for Practical Applications, Animals, Vol. 11, No. 8, DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani11082463 
  2. Amaya, V., Paterson, M., Descovich, K. and Phillips, C. (2020), ‘Effects of Olfactory and Auditory Enrichment on Heart Rate Variability in Shelter Dogs’, Animals, Vol. 10, No. 8. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani10081385 
  3. Sherwell, E., Panteli, E., Krulik, T., Diley, A., Root-Gutteridge, H. and Mills, D. (2023), ‘Changes in Dog Behaviour Associated with the COVID-19 Lockdown, Pre-Existing Separation-Related Problems and Alterations in Owner Behaviour’, Veterinary Science, Vol. 10, No. 3. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci10030195 
  4. Cullen, K., Dickey, J., Bent, J., Thomason, J. and Moëns, N. (2013), ‘Survey-based analysis of risk factors for injury among dogs participating in agility training and competition events’, Journal of the American Veterinary Association, Vol. 243, No. 7. DOI: https://doi.org/10.2460/javma.243.7.1019 
  5. Walsh, E., Meers, L., Samuels, W., Boonen, D., Claus, A., Suarte-Gan, C., Stevens, V., Contalbrigo, L., Normando, S. (2024), ‘Human-dog communication: How body language and non-verbal cues are key to clarity in dog directed play, petting and hugging behaviour by humans’, Applied Animal Behaviour Science, Vol. 272, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.applanim.2024.106206 
  6. Soares, J., Epping, J., Owens, C., Brown, D., Lankford, T., Simoes, E., Caspersen, C. (2016), ‘Odds of Getting Adequate Physical Activity by Dog Walking’, Journal of Physical Activity, DOI: https://doi.org/10.1123/jpah.2013-0229 
  7. Omura, J., Ussery, E., Loustalot, F., Fulton, J. and Carlson, S. (2019), ‘Walking as an Opportunity for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention’, Prevention of Chronic Disease, Vol. 16, No. 66. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5888/pcd16.180690 
  8.  Thelwell, E. (2019), ‘Paws for Thought: A Controlled Study Investigating the Benefits of Interacting with a House-Trained Dog on University Students Mood and Anxiety’, Animals, Vol. 9, No. 10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/ani9100846 
  9. Barcelos, A., Kargas, N., Maltby, J., Hall, S. and Mills, D. (2020), ‘A framework for understanding how activities associated with dog ownership relate to human well-being’, Scientific Reports, Vol. 10. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-020-68446-9 

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