Going out for stimulating walks

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Cigogneepique9247 Icon representing the flag French
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Hi everyone,

We take our dog out several times a day for one long walk and a few short toilet breaks.

When we go for the long walk, we might be out for 4 hours, but it's not 4 hours of constant walking. This is because we might be sitting in a park or there is travel time in the car, so he's probably walking for an hour at the very most, with plenty of stimulation etc.

He sleeps when we get home, but he can sometimes be a bit mouthy. I've been told it might be because he's over-tired or perhaps not tired enough, even though I feel like what we're doing is sufficient. When he starts mouthing, we redirect him immediately with a cow hoof or some deer antler etc.

Is this okay?

Best regards

Translated from French
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3 answers
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    • ProvetoJuniorConseil
    Provetojuniorconseil Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi,

    In my opinion, the length of the outing doesn't necessarily mean your dog has burnt off enough energy. A 4-hour trip out with an hour's walk can already be very stimulating for him: scents, the environment, meeting others, the car, waiting around, etc. The mental stimulation can be significant, even when he isn't walking.

    The fact that he sleeps when he gets home is quite consistent with a stimulating day. On the other hand, mouthing doesn't necessarily mean he hasn't "done enough". With some dogs, when they are overexcited or tired, they can actually have more of a tendency to nip because they find it hard to wind down.

    In my view, you don't necessarily need to increase the length of your walks any further.

    The goal is more about finding a balance between activity, stimulation and rest, taking into account the dog's age, breed, temperament and individual needs. Redirecting him to something he is allowed to chew is a good idea at those times.

    If the mouthing becomes very frequent, intense or difficult to stop, getting the advice of a dog trainer or behaviourist who uses positive, ethical methods could also be worthwhile.

    Maëlla

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    Snaraellora17 Icon representing the flag French
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    Hi,

    The walk seems to have been stimulating, so he's sleeping.

    I don't see anything problematic.

    However, nibbling in his sleep is quite unusual.

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    Kikaah
    Kikaah Icon representing the flag French
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    Depending on how old they are, it’s completely normal for them to mouth and chew things. Even as an adult, it’s a normal behaviour. A dog needs to explore, sniff, chew, lick, and bark... It’s great that you’re providing things for them to chew on. You can also get snuffle mats (or just scatter some dry food when you’re sitting outside) to get their nose working, or a Lickimat... those kinds of activities are really good for them too. You don't necessarily have to spend 4 hours outside; if it’s raining or cold, you can cut the walk short and offer the mental stimulation mentioned above instead – it’ll definitely make up for it.
    Translated from French

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