Autumn brings shorter days with less time to walk your dog. Traditional wisdom is that all dogs need a daily walk — but is this true or could mental stimulation sometimes be just as beneficial? Julie Hill reports.

“We tend to have it in our minds that dogs need at least two walks a day and for some dogs this is great, but for others it can be too much.”

Joe creates interesting obstacle courses for her dogs.

Image: www.dogtrainingessex-suff olk.co.u

Claire Arrowsmith believes in giving dogs the freedom of choice.

Sometimes,a walk is difficult due to the weather, your own health, or that of your dog, and many dogs might benefit emotionally and physically from a day off.

But taking a day off from walking doesn’t mean putting your feet up, instead you should give your dog some mental stimulation. Brain work is more tiring for a dog than physical exercise alone, and studies have shown that mental stimulation can help slow the aging process. Here, five experts offer some exciting suggestions for entertaining and engaging with your dog on a non-walking day.

FREEDOM OF CHOICE

Claire Arrowsmith, clinical animal behaviourist and principal consultant at The Pet Behaviour Centre.

“Many of the dogs I work with require a rethink of the belief that daily walks are essential. I’m not condoning no walks for the majority of dogs, but most of us will experience times when it’s not possible.