The 5 Minute Dog by Personable Pets Dog Training

#123 Bench Time: The Walk Hack Your Dog Is Begging For

Personable Pets Dog Training Season 2 Episode 123

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Have you ever considered that the most meaningful moments with your dog might happen when you're not moving at all? We've discovered something transformative about dog walks that rarely gets the attention it deserves.

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Sharon:

One thing I think we overlook a lot is the importance of sometimes stopping during our walks, finding a place to sit down and just hanging out with our dog. Too often our walks turn into a checklist Go out, go potty, keep moving, get my miles in, come home and done but that's not very exciting for our dogs. For our dogs, walking isn't just about exercise. It's also about experiencing the world, taking in the smells, the sounds, the sights. So when we build in moments to stop and sit and just watch the world go by, we're giving our dogs the opportunity to process the environment, to just relax and observe and to feel safe while doing absolutely nothing. And these moments of stillness are also amazing bonding opportunities. When you sit quietly with your dog not rushing, not asking for behaviors, not distracting with constant movement, you create a shared calm. You become part of the environment with your dog, not just the person dragging that leash and getting them through the walk.

Sharon:

Dogs are incredibly intuitive. They feel our energy when we slow down and settle. They often slow down and settle as well, building trust and emotional connection in a way that moving quickly never will. Sitting together on a walk can also help dogs who are a little more anxious or reactive. By staying calm and giving them time to watch the world from a safe distance, we show them that not every outing is a test or a threat. It's a way to desensitize without pressure, letting them see that life happens around them and it's okay to just watch it. So the next time you're out walking, find a bench, a grassy spot, even a quiet curb, sit down, breathe and just be together. And, if it helps you, set a timer on the phone, five or ten minutes. Then you don't have to worry about the time. You can just concentrate on hanging out with your dog. You'll be amazed how much closer you feel to your dog and how much more they learn about the world when they're given the time to simply watch it all go by right there by your side.