Do you give your dog time to sniff on walks? Or do you power walk alongside them to keep them moving?
You have a whole life and ability to exercise outside of your dog, but giving your dog a sniffari gives this time to your dog- and a sniffari can be a special way to bond and allow them time to explore. A sniffari expands their world by allowing them to smell all of the scents left by others dogs and nature, which is what they are made to do. These are dog friendly walks!
Higher intensity sniffing (think a Dachshund on the hunt!) lowers their pulse even more, creating a more relaxed, happy dog.
Here are some quick tips for encouraging your dog to sniff on a sniffari walk:
- Slow Down! This increases the chance your dog will catch a scent!
- Stop when you sense your dog is about to stop
- Be patient! Let your dog "lollygag"
- Avoid wide open spaces- it's harder for dogs to relax in them, so picking edges or trees, with bushes and grasses, can help them sniff more
- Anxious and fearful dogs may be helped by going during calmer times of day
- Consider (if safe) a slightly longer (not retractable) leash can make them 280% more likely to sniff
A sniffari can reduce anxiety, increase relaxation, and decrease destructive behaviors at home by allow them to get out all of that mental energy while out and about- try it!
