January is Walk Your Dog Month

It may seem strange to designate January, the coldest month of the year in most parts of the country, Walk Your Dog month. Between frigid winds in the midwest and Nor'easters traveling the East coast, walking your dogs can be challenging. But, that's just one more reason why they chose January - to remind us all of the importance of walking! 

Here are three reasons why you should get out with your dog every day (even when it's cold) and how to choose the best equipment to make your walk fun for everyone. 

1. Walking Dogs is Great Exercise!

If your goal is to lose weight or become more fit this year, there’s no better way to do it than walking your dog!

Dog owners are 34% more likely to fit in 150 minutes of walking in a week compared to non-dog owners. In fact, dog owners average about 8 hours and 54 minutes of walking per week.

The Association of Pet Obesity Prevention released a clinical study in 2018, stating that 56% of dogs in the United States are obese. That equates to over 50 million dogs across the country in need of daily exercise!

So, even if you don’t have a dog, you could ask a family member or neighbor if you could take their dogs for a walk. 

2. Walking Decreases Stress!

Feeling stressed over current events? Join the club. But, walking your dog can help alleviate all that anxiety and stress.

Science proves that walking helps increase dopamine and serotonin levels (the feel good hormones) in the brain and reduce oxytocin (a stress hormone).

This helps boost you and your dog’s mood!

3. Routine Makes Life Easier

Just like humans, dogs do a lot better in life when they stay on a routine.

Routines help can even make dogs easier to train. Some behavioral theorists say that it gives them a happier, more receptive to training feeling when they have control over their environment.

In fact, routine can even help reduce aggression and anxiety in dogs (and humans).

Choosing the right equipment

The first step in making your dog walking successful is selecting the proper leash. Mendota Pet has you covered. Here is a quick look at the types of leashes we carry. All of these are available in 3/8" and 1/2" diameter, as well as a variety of colors and lengths. 

• Traffic Leash: If you live in the city, this is the leash you’ll love. Perfect for training, keeping your dog close when you’re in tight quarters, and making it easy to grab them before they bolt from the car.
  
  
• Slip Lead: This is our bestselling leash! This leash and collar in one makes it easy to adjust for any dog, it’s soft on the hands and incredibly stylish.
  
  Make sure you learn how to use a slip lead correctly before using on your dog. 
  
  
• Snap Lead: Ideal for harnesses or neck collars, this is a
  
  
• Coupler: Walking two dogs? This is a great way to do it! Keeps both dogs on course and attaches to just about any lead.
  
  
• Swivel Slip Leash: Does your dog have a problem staying on course? For the avid crosswalker, this lead features a swivel that acts as an anti-coiling device. Gives you a great advantage for the curious dogs.
  
  
• Long Lead: Perfect for training recall, giving your dog some extra sniffing room and more. These leads are available as slip or snap leads and are available in 15’, 30’ and even 50’ lengths.
  
  
• Dog Walker: These martingale-style slip leads secure your dogs without putting excessive pressure on the neck. It’s a great alternative to the slip lead!

No matter what your goals are for you and your dog, walking can help you accomplish them. Pick up warm coats and boots for you and your dog and head out for that walk. It will benefit both of you!