21 Jan January is Walk Your Dog Month

Start your new year off on the right paw

This month is Walk Your Pet Month – the perfect excuse to shake off the sluggishness after overindulging in December, embrace the fresh air, and give your dog the exercise and stimulation they need and love. Regular walks are about much more than toilet breaks; they’re essential for your dog’s physical health, mental wellbeing and overall happiness. And did you know they’re pretty good for us humans too!

Whether you’re a seasoned dog walker or looking to build better habits in 2026, here’s how to make the most of Walk Your Pet Month.

Why walking matters for your dog

Daily walks provide a host of benefits for your four legged friend:

Physical health

Walking helps maintain a healthy weight, supports joint mobility and keeps muscles strong. It’s especially important for older dogs or breeds prone to joint issues.

Mental stimulation

New sights, smells and sounds keep your dog’s mind active. It reduces boredom and keeps destructive behaviours at bay. Regular exercise can help manage excess energy, anxiety, and reactivity.

Social skills

Walks offer controlled opportunities to encounter other dogs, people and new and different environments, all supporting healthy socialisation.

Why walking your dog matters for you

It’s not just your dog who benefits from walkies – walking together is great for you too:

Improved fitness

Even a brisk daily walk can help improve cardiovascular health and mobility.

Mental wellbeing

Spending time outdoors and with your pet can reduce stress, boost your mood and support your overall mental health. It’s especially helpful during the darker winter months.

Routine and motivation

Dogs thrive on routine, and their enthusiasm can be the motivation you need to get moving on days when the sofa feels more tempting than your coat.

Bond building

Shared walks strengthen the connection between you and your dog, building trust and companionship.

Mix it up with new routes

January doesn’t have to mean extra boring, repetitive routes. Adding variety keeps walks interesting for both of you. Here are some of our top suggestions.

Nature trails or woodlands

Ideal for longer walks and great for scent exploration and mental enrichment.

Beach walks

If you’re near the coast then why not try walls on dog friendly beaches. They offer open space and different terrain (just check local rules to make sure your dog is allowed on the stretch of beach you choose).

Urban adventures

If you’re a city dweller then hunt out quiet streets and dog-friendly parks.

Seasonal routes

Try frosty morning walks or brighter midday outings to suit the winter weather.

Social walks

Why not arrange a walk with a friend and their dog – fill your thermos with hot chocolate and off you go.

Walkies essentials

Being prepared makes every walk safer and more enjoyable. Here’s some of our ‘must haves’ when taking our dogs out for a walk.

• Secure lead to attach to their collar or harness. You can choose long or short leads depending on where you’re going and whether you plan to let them off the lead.
• Poop bags (always, and plenty!)
• Treats are great for train their recall. Why not pack some goodies for you too?
• Water and a portable bowl, especially for longer walks. There are loads of great portable dog drinking bottles available to buy.
• Make sure you dress for the weather (both you and the dog!) – layers, gloves and hats for you, coats or reflective wear for them.
• Your phone, in case of emergencies or if you’re following a new route.
• It’s always handy to carry a torch for early morning or evening walks during the winter months.

Safety First

Winter walks are invigorating. Stunning scenery, enhanced by frosty mornings are beautiful, but extra care is needed in the cold.  Be sure to watch out for icy pavements. Rinse and dry paws after walks to remove salt and grit. And keep an eye out for your dog being too cold – especially smaller, older or short coated breeds.

Walk Your Pet Month is a wonderful reminder that daily walks are a simple yet powerful way to support your dog’s health, and your own. By embracing new routes, staying prepared and making walking a regular habit, you’re investing in a happier, healthier future for both of you.