Pet parents and seasoned dog walkers know the importance of a good walk–and good walking shoes. While taking the dog for a walk can feel like nothing more than part of a daily routine, regular walks entail a number of benefits for both dogs and their people.
According to veterinary expert and Rover Pet People Panelist, Dr. Rebecca Greenstein, “Regular walks can help boost your dog’s mental and physical health, and they can provide those same benefits for you too.” In fact, there are a number of health benefits walks have for dogs, including weight control, joint, digestive and urinary tract health, stress relief, training opportunities–and more.
In addition to favorable health aspects, going on walks with your dog also creates connections between humans. “The physical, psychological and socio-emotional benefits have been well documented for dog walking, and it holds so many benefits,” says Philip Tedeschi, professor and researcher on the human-animal bond and member of Rover’s Pet People Panel. “Our brain’s neural-biology is activated and that can not only make the dog walking experience emotionally rewarding, but also make us more likable, more communicative and friendly. Want to get to know the other people who live in your immediate vicinity? Go for a walk with your dog. The social lubricant of having a dog with you allows for fun and easy introductions and conversations.”
These Shoes Were Made For Walking
In a recent survey*, Rover found that 37% of pet parents typically walk their dog twice a day, with nearly half (44%) walking one-to-two miles each outing-that’s 14 walks or up to 28 miles per week! Dog walkers are getting even more steps in. In a separate survey of five-star walkers on Rover**, 40% said they spend three hours (about 18,000 steps) or more walking dogs on any given day. This equates to roughly nine miles a day, or 63 miles per week. In fact, when asked to choose from a list of dog walking tropes, 70% of walkers self-identified as the “10K steps a day” type.
With that kind of mileage, it’s no surprise that seasoned dog walkers have some thoughts about what makes a good walking shoe–and according to Rover’s survey of pet parents, the majority (72%) are looking for expert recommendations.
Here’s what a few of our five-star walkers on Rover have to say:
John W. a walker in Seattle, WA says, “As a former competitive runner, including the Chicago and Boston marathons, I know a thing or two about finding the perfect shoe. I’m a retired veteran and currently averaging nine miles a day (roughly 20,000 steps) walking dogs on Rover. My go-to shoe needs to be comfortable, durable and reliable to keep up with me.”
“I’m a New York dog walker. I spend at least three hours a day walking dogs in the city and I need a pair of shoes that are comfortable, durable and most importantly, shoes that help my feet not hurt after a long day.” – Natalia A. (Queens, New York)
“As a full time dog walker and pet sitter on Rover, I need a secure sneaker with major arch support for busy days. On a typical day of dog walking I like to wear a pair of sneakers for overall support and safety. Occasionally, I’ll wear pillow slides for the quick morning or late night pee break. Ultimately I’m looking for a shoe that’s comfortable, durable and reliable. Bonus points if it’s washable and easy to slip on.” – Elizabeth F. (Los Angeles, CA)
When it comes to choosing a dog walking shoe, pet parents (59%) and five-star walkers on Rover (90%) agree that comfort is the most important factor. According to the latter, the ideal dog walking shoe should also be durable (80%) and easy to put on (60%). Pet parents say they’re also looking for reliability (32%) in a good pair of walking shoes.
To help pet parents and dog walkers alike put their best foot forward with the right pair of walking shoes, Rover has teamed up with e-commerce retailer, Zappos, to introduce the Rover-Approved Dog Walking Shoe Shop: a curated selection of footwear inspired by and for pet parents and dog walkers of all types.
Whether your style is “Woke Up and Ready to Roll” (slippers or slides will suffice, even in the middle of the day), more of a “10K Steps a Day” type (lacing up the sneakers and hitting the ground running), you stay dressed for a “Night on the Town” (dog walking doesn’t compromise your ~look), or you like to keep it in “Sport Mode” (something sturdy and easy to slip on), there’s something for every dog walking aficionado.
Dipping your toe in? Expert tips for fresh walkers
If you’re just getting started on your pet parenthood or dog walking journey, certified professional dog trainer and Rover Pet People Panelist, Nicole Ellis, has a few tips for successful walks including the best gear to bring along.
“A gentle 30-minute walk is often a good starting point for dogs and humans alike, especially if you or your dog are just getting used to regular exercise” says Ellis. “From there, you can gradually take longer walks by adding 15 minutes or a second walk in the day.”
Ellis also recommends giving your dog plenty of time to sniff on every walk. Scent is the number one way that dogs interpret the world around them and sniffing has been linked to benefits like reducing stress and anxiety.
In addition to the right pair of walking shoes, some gear you might want to consider bringing on your next walk includes:
- Collar with ID tags: Even fully trained dogs can get loose, so make sure they’re wearing a tag with your contact information at all times. Don’t forget their rabies vaccination tag, either!
- Reflective gear for night and low-light walks: You can attach a light to your dog’s collar or buy a vest or collar with reflective details to help ensure a safe walk at night or on darker days.
- A Y-shaped harness: These styles have a leash attachment in the front. This helps limit pulling without restricting your dog’s shoulder movement.
- Running gear: If you plan to take your adult dog on runs, you may want to consider special gear, like a hands-free leash.
If you’re unable to keep up with your dog’s walking needs for one reason or another, finding an experienced dog walker is a smart way to keep your pup happy and healthy.
