You need to leave for work, you’re tired, or you really just don’t feel like dawdling. All you want is for your dog to go potty, yet she’s stopping to smell every leaf, hydrant, and tree. Your instinct is to tug on the leash to break her concentration and get back to the goal, but is this the right move? Let’s talk about why sniffing matters to dogs and how to embrace sniff-friendly walks.
The Power of a Dog’s Nose
Chances are, you’ve heard that dogs have a much more powerful sense of smell than humans. While scientists are still figuring out the exact numbers, the American Kennel Club suggests that a dog’s nose is at least 100,000 times more sensitive than a human’s nose. Not only can they smell things from farther away, but they can pick up on complexities of scent that we could never detect.
In many ways, smell is how your dog interacts with the world around her. By snuffling around, she’s figuring out what kinds of critters may be lurking nearby, how many other dogs have passed through the area, and more. It’s not only useful to her, but downright entertaining.
Sniffing and Quality of Life
Domesticated dogs rely almost exclusively on their owners to create order in their lives. Routine and trust are two of the pillars of training we discuss often at ADU, and they can have a positive impact on your dog’s comfort level. However, it’s also important to build appropriate levels of autonomy into your dog’s life, too, and this is where sniffing can work wonders.
Research shows that dogs who get plenty of chances to sniff show more signs of optimism. These dogs are confident and happy, which can actually make them better companions. Plus, sniffing and interpreting scent engages the mind, helping even the most restless dogs burn off excess energy without putting strain on their muscles and joints.
Tips for Sniff-Friendly Walks
To start taking more sniff-friendly walks, make sure you’re setting realistic expectations for yourself. Not every walk has to be taken at your dog’s leisure, and the occasional rushed potty break will still happen. As long as your dog gets about 20 minutes of sniff-friendly walking a day, you’ll start to notice the benefits.
To help your dog get the most out of sniffing, zero in on variety. Sure, your backyard is full of smells, but the best way to introduce new and exciting scents is to take walks in different locations. At the same time, make sure you’re choosing locations that align with your dog’s current abilities. For example, if you’re still working on leash reactivity, a bustling trail may not be the best choice.
Finally, keep an eye on what your dog is sniffing and make sure sniffing doesn’t turn into eating. Despite how sensitive your dog’s sense of smell is, she’s still not the best judge of what’s toxic (or just plain gross).
At All Dogs Unleashed, we love helping owners and their dogs strike the balance between obedience and fulfillment. Learn more about our training programs today.