National Walk Your Dog Week is observed between October 1 to 7. Is your pooch a fan of getting outdoors and taking a walk? If that is the case, this week is an ideal time to play outdoors. You and your dog may join a nationwide celebration highlighting the advantages of walking together. Therefore, it is time to get out those shoes and prepare your puppy’s paw pads for National Walk Your Dog Week. This time serves as a reminder to pet owners that exercise is critical for the health of their canine companions.
History of National Walk Your Dog Week
Beginning October 1 for a whole week, you and your lovely pup can join a nation of dog owners in celebrating the many benefits of walking together. This is all thanks to Colleen Paige, a pet expert, who launched Walk Your Dog Week in 2010. The idea was to raise awareness of canine obesity and canine behavior in the U.S. Paige had initially planned for it to be a one-day holiday but she determined that a single day would not be sufficient time to get people’s dogs into a pattern and assist both their pets and their owners in changing their habits. She hoped that when people saw how their dogs had changed, they would continue to care for them and look forward to spending time walking them.
According to Paige, if a dog is confined to a cage or a yard for most of the day, it may result in destructive behavior, which, along with the dog’s loneliness and boredom, can lead to a variety of medical conditions such as diabetes, among others. As a result, walking your dog may help reduce medical problems and destructive behavior in dogs while also improving their general health.
This holiday was created out of a consideration for dogs and their well-being since, for many dog lovers, these creatures are a big part of their lives and leave lasting memories on individuals of all ages, races, and socioeconomic backgrounds.
National Walk Your Dog Week timeline
Dogs in north-eastern Siberia pull sleds in snowy regions to locations people can’t access.
Jim Buck, the first professional dog walker in the U.S., opens his dog business in New York City.
Colleen Paige, a pet lifestyle expert and animal advocate, establishes Walk Your Dog Week.
Jim Buck, who started walking dogs as a business venture, dies at 81.
National Walk Your Dog Week FAQs
What are the qualifications necessary to become a dog walker?
There are no formal skills necessary to become a dog walker/pet sitter. However, being in possession of certifications such as animal first aid, pet behavior, or animal care can help you advance in your career.
Is walking the dog exercise?
Dog owners who walk their pups a few times a week benefit from a number of health and social advantages.
How long should dog walks be?
A 45-minute walk is ideal and will assist to keep your dog active and in good health.
National Walk Your Dog Week Activities
Take your dog for a walk
Observe National Walk Your Dog Week by taking your dog for frequent walks.
Take your dog for a checkup
You can also take your dog for a check-up at your local vet's office to mark this week.
Post on social media
Share messages and photos of you taking your dog for a walk on social media and use the hashtag #NationalWalkYourDogWeek
5 Important Facts About Walking Your Dog
The dogs become less destructive
Taking your dogs for a walk will ultimately reduce their destructive behaviors in the house.
Walks are good obedience practice for dogs
A stroll provides an excellent opportunity to practice basic obedience and broaden knowledge.
It boosts the dog’s health
Taking your dog for a walk will help maintain a healthy weight and improve the dog’s health.
The process is great for bonding
Walking your dog fosters a link between you and your pet.
Walks improve the pet owner’s health
Taking your dog for a walk will also improve your overall health and help keep you in shape.
Why We Love National Walk Your Dog Week
Dogs give unconditional loyalty
Some argue that a dog is only loyal as long as it receives food and shelter. But if you’ve ever known a dog and witnessed its reaction when you return home or when it is reunited with a fellow four-legged friend, you know it’s about more than that.
Dogs are a man's best friend
Dogs have been considered man’s closest friend for a very long time. The unique bond between a person and their dog can last for a lifetime.
Walks are therapeutic
Animal-assisted therapy is linked to reduced anxiety, pain, and depression in people suffering from a variety of mental or physical health issues. The exercise is good for both the owner and the pet.
National Walk Your Dog Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 1 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1 | Sunday |
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