Warm layers on, raincoat zipped, it’s time to walk the dog!

After the excitement and indulgence of Christmas, we can all do with getting back into a healthy routine. As luck would have it, January in the UK is “Walk Your Dog Month” so it’s a great opportunity to refocus on daily exercise, mental stimulation and quality time with your dog.

Regular walking isn’t just about burning off calories – it plays a vital role in your dog’s physical health, emotional wellbeing, and behaviour. For dogs living in Petts Wood and Orpington, with access to parks, woodland walks and gardens, January is the perfect time to reset healthy habits.

Why walking and routine matter

Regular daily exercise helps your dog:

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Support joint and muscle health

• Reduce anxiety, boredom and destructive behaviours

• Improve sleep and overall wellbeing

According to guidance from the RSPCA and British Veterinary Association, dogs benefit most from regular, age-appropriate exercise combined with mental stimulation, rather than occasional bursts of intense activity.

Easy, vet-approved advice for January

1. Keep walks consistent, not extreme: Cold weather can make owners enthusiastic one day and reluctant the next. Aim for steady, daily walks suited to your dog’s age, breed and fitness level.

2. Add mental stimulation: Sniffing, exploring and short training games are just as important as distance. Letting your dog stop and sniff is mentally enriching and calming.

3. Watch paws and joints: Winter pavements can be cold and gritty. Older dogs may show stiffness at this time of year – shorter, more frequent walks are often better.

4. Don’t forget lead manners: January is an ideal time to refresh loose-lead walking and recall skills, especially if routines slipped over Christmas.

How we can help

If your dog seems stiff, reluctant to walk, or has gained weight over winter, it’s worth having a chat with us. At Ollie & Florrie Vets, our team can help you:

• Assess whether your dog is getting the right amount of exercise

• Check weight, joint health and mobility

• Offer advice for puppies, senior dogs or dogs with arthritis

• Support behaviour or training concerns

If you’re worried, contact us or use our calendar to book an appointment when it suits you.

Quick tips

• Walk little and often if it’s cold

• Let your dog have a good sniff – it’s good for their brain

• Keep routines predictable

• Check paws regularly