Not in the mood for a long walk with your dog again? Has it already been just a quick round around the block the past few days—and even that annoyed you? With our tips, you’ll not only go out more often and for longer, but actually enjoy it too. Ready for motivation that really works? Let’s go!
Making Dog Walks Easy
Being a dog owner means going on walks—long ones—just like dog hair on your pants. Rain or shine, every single day, going outside is essential. Some people find this easy. Others keep shortening the length and frequency of their walks until they only serve one purpose: potty breaks.
But for dogs, daily and sufficient exercise is incredibly important. And for you too.
So what can you do if walking—whether with or without your dog—is no fun at all? These tips will help you.
Find the Reason for Your Lack of Motivation
Does your dog pull like crazy on the leash? Playing tug-of-war for miles is exhausting and discouraging. The only upside is that every walk becomes a workout. Unfortunately, also a test of patience. The right leash training can help here.
Does your dog usually walk fine but lose control at the sight of other dogs? That too can be solved with proper training.
Or maybe your dog isn’t the issue—you just can’t muster the energy for a long walk at the end of the day. Or maybe your neighborhood is full of inconsiderate people, with or without dogs?
The first step to more motivation is identifying your personal reason for not enjoying dog walks—or even dreading them. Be honest with yourself. You don’t have to tell anyone the reason.
Some examples:
- I can’t get myself moving in the evenings.
- I get bored while walking.
- My dog pulls.
- My dog spends more time standing than walking.
- I’m out of breath quickly.
- It takes forever to get out the door.
- Other dog owners annoy me.
- I feel lonely while walking.
This list could go on and on. Take a few minutes to think about your main issue. Once you’ve identified it, it’s much easier to address and solve.
Make It Easier to Get Going
When I watch other people get ready for a dog walk, I lose motivation just from watching. First, they need to pack up a ton of stuff.
Different leashes, treats, a ball, bug spray—all crammed into coat pockets or an overflowing dog-walking bag. By the time they’re ready, I’d probably be a kilometer into my walk.
They’re making it harder than it has to be.
Do you have a similar problem? Take a close look at what you really need and use. Minimize your gear to the essentials, pack it ahead of time, and pack it smart. A dog-walking jacket or bag should be more than enough. Put it on, clip on the leash, and go. Less time, less effort, and fewer excuses.
Pick Unusual Destinations
A ruin, an old train station, a lake in winter, an industrial area, a fancy neighborhood—tired of the same old walk? Choose new destinations.
Take unknown paths. Do the opposite of what everyone else does. Or just walk without a plan and consciously choose areas you’ve never explored.
Besides giving you a sense of adventure, you might discover fascinating photo spots along the way.
Adjust Times and Routes
Annoyed by other people (and their dogs)? Choose times and routes with fewer encounters. That may take some effort at first. But for you and your dog, it can be totally worth it to get up an hour earlier or skip the crowded park.
Being out and about in peace is far more relaxing. Plus, you’ll collect more positive experiences. The more positive walks you have, the more motivated you’ll be next time.
Stay Entertained During the Walk
Are you bored while your dog happily sniffs around? Find things to keep yourself engaged:
- Take photos of interesting scenes or your dog in cool settings.
- Listen to music, audiobooks, podcasts, or learn a new language.
- Boost your fitness with power walking.
- Draft emails using a voice-to-text app.
- Try geocaching—a modern treasure hunt.
- Look for abandoned places.
- Practice mindfulness or breathing meditation.
You can also incorporate shared activities to make your walks more fun:
- Fetch
- Canicross
- Dummy training
- Racing each other
- Dog pulling sports
- Jogging together
Walk off-trail through woods and fields. Explore birds and insects. Learn about local plants. If you really look, there’s so much to discover. Or, if you prefer to zone out, invest in good headphones and enjoy a podcast.
Speaking of company…
Walk with Others
Talking to a friend, your partner, or a new dog-walking acquaintance during a walk adds variety.
And you don’t have to be physically together. Got a friend you’d like to talk to more often? Schedule weekly phone chats while walking.
Know another dog owner who also struggles with motivation? Meet up and walk together.
Check out local dog schools or clubs for organized “social walks.” Or start your own group for dog lovers in your area.
Even if it doesn’t click the first time, new connections can develop.
Do the Longest Walk in the Morning
Getting motivated for a long walk after work is tough for many people. Same goes for working out at the end of a tiring day—it’s not appealing.
Start your day with a win by gradually increasing your morning walk. Instead of just a quick potty break, aim for 20 minutes at first, then 30, then 45 or even 60.
By increasing gradually, your routine won’t be totally upended.
Plus, starting the day with exercise will lift your mood and boost your energy for the whole day.
Add Variety
Walking the exact same loop every day gets mind-numbingly boring. At least once a week, mix it up.
- Try a new route.
- Drive out to a completely different setting.
- Plan a small outing and have a picnic.
- Take public transport a few stops and walk home.
- Meet friends for a hike.
- Go mushroom picking, collect wild garlic, or visit animal enclosures.
You don’t have to experience 93 new adventures every day. That would just create unnecessary pressure. Still, step out of your comfort zone now and then.
Whether it’s a photo shoot, meeting another dog owner, or finding new trail ideas—the key is not to fall into the same old rut.
Planning outings creates anticipation and boosts motivation.
Occasionally Let Someone Else Walk the Dog
Busy at work, overwhelmed with the kids, still feeling weak after a cold, or just not in the mood?
A reliable dog walker ensures your dog gets the exercise they need—even when you can’t. No need for guilt.
Dog walkers are a good backup for any owner, especially when you’re injured or sick.
Find the Right Motivator for You
It doesn’t matter whether it’s meeting a friend, rewarding yourself with ice cream per hour walked, or only listening to audiobooks during dog walks—try things out and figure out what works for you.
For example, I hate being out in nice weather in pretty places. Sounds odd, right? What I actually hate is crowded, bustling walking areas.
What motivates me is bad weather, unusual times, and secluded paths—because that’s when I can enjoy peace and freedom. I also like being unreachable for a change while walking.
Find what you enjoy about being outside with your dog. If there’s nothing yet—create your own personal benefits.
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