Let Them Sniff

We’re all about the sniffing here at Wholesome Canine.

This highly underrated activity has far-reaching health benefits, both physically and emotionally, for our beloved dogs. It’s been estimated that dogs’ noses are between one hundred thousand and one million times more sensitive than a human nose! They gather loads of information about the world around them from the scents they encounter. If dog owners understood just how powerful sniffing is for promoting health and longevity, there’s no doubt they’d encourage it more often.

The Beneficial Aspects of Sniffing

Curiosity

Dogs by their very nature are curious creatures who love to explore their environments. Giving them the opportunity to engage in instinctual behaviours, like sniffing and investigating, allows them to use their senses and keep their brains healthy. It’s also useful for promoting restful sleep.

Mental Stimulation

Anything that challenges the brain (sniffing does a great job of that) is providing your dog with mental stimulation. This form of exercise is just as important as the physical kind. Lack of mental stimulation can lead to problem behaviours and a depressed dog. The brain is a muscle, and if it’s not used, it will begin to decline, so it’s vital that it gets a workout too in order to decrease the chances of premature aging.

Stress Buster

Sniffing is a vital tool when it comes to reducing stress levels. The olfactory receptors in the nose are connected directly to the limbic system in the brain, which is the emotional control centre in both humans and dogs. By giving our dogs the opportunity to sniff, we’re encouraging calm and relaxed behaviour that will help to maintain healthy stress levels.

Gentle Stretching

A slow sniff walk allows our dogs to stretch in a healthy and gentle way without overexerting vulnerable muscles and joints. This is especially important for senior dogs and puppies who need slow-paced exercise to build stability and balance.

Being Social

Sniff walks are a great way for dogs to learn how to be social around others. The pace is slow, they have the freedom to investigate where they want and to do it with others. It promotes calm behaviours and is a fantastic way for younger dogs to learn proper manners and have positive interactions with others.

Let them sniff!

When it comes time for their next walk, remember that it’s their time, not ours. Allow them to enjoy it the way they want and need. We could all learn a valuable lesson from our pups about slowing down and being more present in our daily lives.