Pet owners enjoy various health and social benefits by walking their dogs regularly. According to Harvard Health Publishing, daily walks ease joint pain, offset the effects of weight-promoting genes, and boost immune function. But did you know that this activity is also vital for your animal companion’s health? If you’re not convinced why this is important, here are six scientific benefits of dog walking:

1. It Reduces Stress. Stress in dogs can be due to many things. Their anxiety levels may pick up if they’re hungry, thirsty, or suffering from general malnutrition. They can also be stressed because of pain, injury, and disease. Events that can cause your dog to feel fear and become distressed may also lead to elevated stress levels. About 93 percent of dog owners claimed that walking their dogs made the pet feel de-stressed. That’s according to a study mentioned in PetBacker.com.

2. It Aids in Socialization. If you don’t take your dog out for regular walks, you deprive them of the chance to explore their environment. Socialization is crucial to help your pet get used to all sorts of sights, smells and sounds positively. According to the American Kennel Club, proper socialization helps keep your four-legged best friend from being fearful of children, riding in a vehicle, and many more. Shy pets, in particular, benefit from consistent walks. If your pet gets the opportunity to interact with the surrounding, this can help build their confidence and adapt better.

3. It Mitigates Unwanted Behaviors. The Animal Foundation states that lack of exercise can negatively impact your dog’s mental health, as well. If your dog has too much energy but doesn’t have enough physical stimulation, this can lead to boredom. This and pent-up energy can trigger behavioral problems in your beloved furry friend. They will try to seek your attention by displaying unwanted behaviors. These include excessive barking, whining, and jumping on people, among others.

4. It Helps Control Weight. Like humans, your dog can also quickly gain weight and become obese without regular exercise. ScienceDirect.com discussed in one of its published articles in Preventive Veterinary Medicine that canine obesity is associated with numerous diseases. These include osteoarthritis, type 2 diabetes, and lung problems, to name a few.

5. It Improves Digestive and Urinary Health. Gas, diarrhea, and vomiting are common signs of stomach problems in dogs. Your dog can also suffer from urinary tract infections. Cloudy color, foul smell, or presence of blood in their urine are symptoms of infection in their bladder, urethra, or kidneys. Another indicator is difficulty urinating. The VCA Hospitals note that regular dog walks can also help promote better digestion and urinary health in your pet.

6. It Strengthens the Bond You Share. According to Positively.com, walking your dog will not only reduce their loneliness. But it can also reinforce your relationship with your pet. Sitting home all day will likely make your dog pretty isolated. Walking them will help alleviate this detached feeling and even help build their trust in you. Regular walks are just one of the many things you can do together to improve the connection you both share.

Does your dog seem anxious or disruptive? If you’re looking for ways to improve their behavior and well-being, contact Port Royal Veterinary Hospital in Port Royal, South Carolina. Call our office now for more information on how to make your pet healthy and happy.