Don’t Walk Your Dog Day
Exploring alternative activities for your canine companion could be more beneficial than the conventional practice of daily walks.
Dreading going out in the extreme hot or cold weather to give that pup a very long walk? Well maybe it’s better not to!
While taking their dog for a walk is certainly a great activity that many pet owners do on a regular basis, and can even be recommended, this day is about doing the opposite.
It may be a bit surprising, but this is the time to celebrate Don’t Walk Your Dog Day!
History of Don’t Walk Your Dog Day
Don’t Walk Your Dog Day was founded in 2022 by Niki French, a professional dog trainer and author of the bestselling book, STOP Walking Your Dog. The purpose of the day was to raise awareness about the idea that not all dogs have a good experience when they go for walks, and it may not actually be good for them.
Sure, dogs need to get exercise and fresh air, but some canine pals really do not thrive on long daily walks.
French’s book explains that there are a number of reasons dogs might need to walk less. These can include dogs who are nervous, aged, ill or for other reasons do better without walking.
In honor of Don’t Walk Your Dog Day, pet owners should consider learning more about this practice and find out about alternative ways that dogs can get their needs met without being walked.
How to Celebrate Don’t Walk Your Dog Day
Show some love to your canine friend and do a bit more research to find out how it’s best to celebrate Don’t Walk Your Dog Day. Check out some of these ideas to get started:
Learn Reasons Not to Walk Your Dog
Not sure if long walks are a favorite for a particular dog? One of the best ways to find out is to stop taking so many walks and see if they are feeling better from various stressors. Check out Niki French’s book for more information, but get started with some of these ways dogs may show they are getting walked too much:
-
Recurring Injuries
Over exercising a dog can lead to repetitive injuries, too much resting muscle tone that causes stiffness or muscle soreness.
-
Increased Hyperactivity
Some people believe that more exercise will wear out a hyperactive dog, but it may be that the dog is overstimulated and actually needs more rest at home.
-
Weather Issues
It may be very cold, rather rainy or too hot to take a dog for a walk. This is especially true of dogs who are older, have respiratory issues, have flat faces, are overweight, are young puppies, or who have dark fur.
Keep Your Dog Happy without Walking
Even when a canine pet doesn’t need long walks for a number of different reasons, it’s still possible to do some fun and entertaining activities indoors.
Plus, many people don’t realize that dogs actually need rest days that incorporate times of getting away from stressful stimuli and just hanging out around the house.
Toys, comfort pillows and other treats are great for these days at home with a pup. Get creative and consider some alternative training and engagement that will help Rover to have what he needs every day.
Don’t Walk Your Dog Day FAQs
Did ancient civilizations walk their dogs?
Historical records suggest domesticated dogs in ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia often lived as working animals.
Instead of leisure walks, they guarded, hunted, or carried out other tasks. The idea of walking dogs for recreation emerged much later in Western cultures.
What are some quirky alternatives to dog walking around the world?
In Japan, some urban pet owners use dog strollers for their pups, especially small breeds, as walking isn’t always practical.
In Finland, owners use “dog sledding” activities for larger breeds, even for fun rather than transport.
Why might some dogs prefer mental over physical exercise?
Breeds like Border Collies and German Shepherds thrive on mental challenges. Activities like problem-solving games or scent work can tire them out as much as a physical workout.
How do myths about “lazy dogs” misrepresent their needs?
Some people assume couch-potato breeds like Bulldogs are just lazy. In truth, many such dogs have physical limitations, like brachycephalic syndrome, making long walks uncomfortable or harmful.
What are some dog breeds that don’t require daily walks?
Dogs like Shih Tzus, Pugs, or Cavalier King Charles Spaniels often prefer shorter outings or enrichment over intense walking routines.
Can skipping walks strengthen the dog-owner bond?
Yes! Spending quality time doing focused activities like training, cuddling, or playing together often deepens mutual trust and connection more than routine walks.
What’s a fun indoor activity for rainy days?
“Snuffle mats,” filled with hidden treats, let dogs forage and satisfy their natural hunting instincts indoors. These are great for mental stimulation.
Do senior dogs benefit more from skipping walks?
Many senior dogs have arthritis or limited mobility. Replacing long walks with gentle stretching or massages can better suit their needs and comfort.
What’s an unusual fact about dogs and exercise?
Dogs sweat only through their paw pads, so excessive walking in hot weather can lead to overheating without obvious signs like sweat.
How can “Don’t Walk Your Dog Day” reduce stress in pets?
For anxious dogs, avoiding unpredictable outdoor stimuli like loud noises or unfamiliar animals creates a calmer environment, lowering overall stress.
Need some inspiration?
Check out these videos for some extra inspiration in getting involved!
Also on ...
View all holidays
National Ferret Day
Spend time with your pet ferret, support a ferret rescue or adoption center, or learn about these fascinating mustelids on National Ferret Day.
International Children’s Book Day
Revisit your childhood favorites, or read them to your own kids or grandkids. Check out new children’s book recommendations, and help kids learn to love reading.
National Peanut Butter and Jelly Day
It’s a song. It’s an idiom. It’s one of everyone’s favorite sandwiches: get out your favorite fruit jelly and enjoy the iconic combo of Peanut Butter and Jelly.
We think you may also like...
National Brown Dog Day
Warm, caramel fur and playful personalities — the perfect companions for adventures in the great outdoors or cuddles on the couch.
National Hug Your Dog Day
Give that furry creature a special celebration by enjoying National Hug Your Dog Day with them.
National Pitbull Awareness Month
With their boundless energy and loyalty, these furry companions offer endless joy and an unwavering paw of friendship.
