The new year isn’t just a reset for us, it’s a great opportunity to refresh your dog’s daily routine, too. Walks are one of the most important parts of your dog’s physical and mental wellbeing, but doing the same loop every day can start to feel stale for both of you.
Here are simple, low-pressure ways to bring more joy, enrichment, and intention into your dog’s walks this year.
Change the Pace (Literally)
Not every walk needs to be a power walk. Mixing in slower, exploratory walks allows your dog to engage with their environment and decompress.
Try:
- One “sniff-focused” walk per day
- Shorter walks with more stops
- Letting your dog lead (within safe boundaries)
Switch Up the Route
A new route, even one street over, introduces fresh scents, sights, and sounds. These changes stimulate your dog’s brain and prevent boredom.
Ideas:
- Rotate between 3–4 regular routes
- Visit a new park once a week
- Walk at a different time of day for new sensory input
Upgrade Your Walking Gear
Comfort matters, especially if you’re increasing walk frequency or duration. Supportive, well-designed gear can make walks more enjoyable and safer.
Look for:
- Adjustable, ergonomic harnesses like our Ready-Go Harness
- Lightweight, non-restrictive materials
- Durable leashes that give freedom without sacrificing control
GW walking essentials are designed to support natural movement while keeping walks calm, connected, and comfortable.
Build a Ritual
Dogs thrive on consistency. Adding a simple ritual, like a calm pause before heading out or a post-walk stretch, can make walks feel grounding and predictable.
Refreshing your routine doesn’t mean doing more. It just means doing things a little differently, and more intentionally.
