Facebook for Dogs?

Every morning, The Angry Wolfpack embarks on what I like to call “The Sniff and Pee Tour.”  There are many great reasons to do this, mostly are for the dogs, but there are benefits for you also. 

First and foremost, dogs were made to sniff.  I’ve read numerous books and have been told by my vet, Dr. Platz, that the portion of their brain dedicated to smells is forty, yes forty, times larger than ours.  Their sense of smell is at least 1,000 times more sensitive than ours!

Emmy - previous member of The Angry Wolfpack

Any here you thought it was the sound of the cheese wrapper that made them come.

Back to blog….

Dogs read their world through the sense of smell, and they can detect,  age, gender, mood and health through their sense of smell, which leads me to the next subject.  They leave messages for each other through their urine.  I figure The Angry Wolfpack have about 1,000 local friends, as we stop at nearly every tree, rock, bush, shrub, flower, bench, fence, sign post and an empty spot of grass for them to process and potentially leave messages for their “friends.”   While this is great, there are many other positive aspects about getting out and walking your dogs.

Let's count the ways!

1.    It is essential for their mental well-being.  By taking your dog for a walk off of your property, you are allowing them to exercise the primary sense, SMELL!

The Angry Wolfpack out exploring the pond.

2.    It’s important for their physical well-being, and yours.  Some exercise is imperative for everyone’s well-being.  As a bonus, you as the pack leader get to observe your neighbor's homes and begin silently judging them, but that’s another blog.

The Angry Wolfpack exploring Lake Michigan

3.    It’s a socializing opportunity.  This is a very good time for your dog(s) to meet other people and potentially other dogs or animals.  This may take some time; the most important thing is to curb bad behavior quickly and consistently.

Andy is not a fan of Brown Trout

4.    It’s an outlet for energy.  I could go on for hours about this, but your four-legged friends are going to expend energy.  Either take them for a walk or let the chew on your couch; it’s your choice.

5.    It’s all about longevity, yours and your best friend(s).  Daily exercise keeps the mind sharp and the body flexible and willing.

Lastly, make it a point to get your friend(s) off of the leash and let them explore.

    

Finally, Jack Salz created this video for us bipeds to have an idea what it's like to be a dog.  I hope you enjoy it!

- The Angry Wolfpack