06/04/2026
🐾A little reminder… your dog doesn’t always need a long, fast walk to be happy 🐾
There’s this idea that dogs need big walks, twice a day, every day - but in reality, that’s not always what fulfils them most.
A slower walk, where they can properly sniff, explore and take everything in at their own pace can be far more beneficial than marching them round the block.
Sniffing = mental stimulation
Exploring = mental stimulation
Even just sitting together and watching the world go by… that all counts.
Some days, my two don’t go on long walks at all.
We’ll do a mix of:
• Play and a bit of training in the garden
• A shorter, slower “snifari” walk
• Lick mats & snuffle mats at home
And they’re left calm, settled and content - not just physically tired, but mentally fulfilled too (and they are both cocker spaniels 😂).
Licking is naturally calming for dogs.
It’s self-soothing, helps them switch off, and brings their arousal levels down - something a lot of dogs actually need more of.
Because the truth is, a long walk might tire their body…but it doesn’t always settle their mind.
It’s about balance - mental stimulation, physical movement and calmness.
That’s what creates a happy dog… and a much easier life for us too 😊
I spend a lot of time helping owners understand this with their own dogs, especially those who feel like they’re doing everything and still ending up with a wired, over-stimulated dog.
Sometimes it’s not about doing more… it’s about doing things differently.
Especially on days like today, when the weather’s lovely, it’s nice to slow things down a bit and enjoy it together ☀️
Your dog doesn’t need miles.
They just need time, understanding… and you ❤️
Happy Easter Monday 🐣