Dog Walking Guidelines


We understand that different kinds of dogs should follow the dog walking guidelines for their breed to stay fit and healthy. Read on to find our dog walking guide!

Not all dogs need the same amount of exercise. For example, it is usually assumed that a greyhound would require more exercise than a schnauzer or a dachshund, but this is a popular misconception. Different kinds of dogs should follow the dog walking guidelines for their breed to stay fit and healthy. Read on to find out more about specialised care for different breeds from Encore.

Dog walking tips for greyhounds

If you adopt a retired greyhound, you might think you’ll have to walk miles a day to fulfil their exercise needs. According to The Retired Greyhounds Trust, this is a ‘popular misconception’. Greyhounds are built for ‘speed, not stamina’, so two twenty-minute walks a day is probably enough.

There could be a chance if your greyhound has been mistreated, that they find socialising with other dogs difficult. It could be wise to take your greyhound walking in a quieter spot where they can run around without other dogs, like in a field or park at a less busy time of day. Another helpful dog walking tip would be to try walking your greyhound with other dogs that you know are friendly, but only when you feel that your dog is more confident.

If you’re walking a large dog, you need to make sure they have the right nutrition. Our Encore dog food range contains a selection of wet foods and pate, which is a favourite for both pets and owners. Our pate is deliciously complete and offers all of the nutrients that your dog needs to be healthy and happy

Walking a smaller dog

Dog walking tips for dachshunds

Image of dog that will be following dog walking guidelines

Walking a smaller dog can come with some complications. Dr Steven Allday, veterinarian and creator of LubriSynHA blog states, ‘half an hour, possibly broken into two fifteen-minute chunks, should be enough for small breeds.’ Breaking your dog walk up into shorter time periods can help your dachshund get into a gentle routine without being overwhelmed by the distance.

Dog walking guidelines, including ours at Encore, do not encourage you to tire your smaller dog out. Think how tiny dachshund legs are – they can only walk so far. It’s best to stick to quick routes on flat ground, so they don’t become overworked.

Despite their size, smaller dogs can be more boisterous than larger ones. That’s why you should always be wary when entering a dog park, and always keep your smaller breed dog on a lead. To reward good behaviour, try our Encore dog food tins – perfect for hungry little hounds.

Dog walking tips for schnauzers

Schnauzers are renowned for being very inquisitive and curious dogs, so let them sniff around and explore on their walks. Although it can be tempting to pull your dog away when they’re sniffing something for a long time, it’s good to allow them to stimulate their senses. It’s also one of the best bits about a walk for dogs so try not to rush them.

Harnesses can be helpful when walking schnauzers, as they have a tendency to pull on a lead. Don’t let your dog boss you around. A harness will give you peace of mind that you won’t lose grip and allows you to be in total control of your dog.

Our final dog walking tip is one for all dogs, big or small. Remember to take lots of water with you. Dog owners tend to forget that their faithful four-legged friends will need a drink after walking or running around for a while. Give them a bowl of water and some Encore complete pate when you get home – your dog is going to need a lot of protein too after all that exercise.

For more information or to purchase any of our Encore natural dog food products, click here to shop.

Encore discusses their top dog walking tips
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