Sniff Walks for Relaxing Your Pomsky Dog

Pomskies require multiple walks each day, but have you ever wondered if you are taking them on the right type of walks? This post includes the benefits of taking your pomsky dog on a sniff walk, the difference between sniff walks and exercise walks and how to find the perfect balance for your pomsky dog.

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What is a Sniff Walk?

A sniff walk is when you allow your dog’s nose to lead the way on a walk as they explore their environment. Sniff walks include walking at a slower pace and they provide mental stimulation as well as many other benefits for dogs including reducing their stress and anxiety.

Difference Between Sniff Walks and Exercise Walks

Pomskies require both sniff walks and exercise walks to maintain their physical and mental health. When you walk your pomsky dog at a brisk pace, this is an exercise walk, which increases your dog’s heart rate and is great for their cardiovascular health. It also increases your dog’s muscle strength, endurance, and helps your pomsky dog maintain a healthy weight.

In contrast, sniff walks prioritize your dog’s mental stimulation over physical exercise. These walks are at a slower pace and give your dog the opportunity to stop and sniff the outside environment. Since dogs have a very strong sense of smell, sniff walks help your dog learn about the world around them. They provide a sensory experience that your dog is not able to achieve when you have limited time, such as when you take them outside to go potty quick before leaving for work.

Sniff walks allow your dog to decompress after a stressful experience such as when you have guests over for the holidays, after a visit to the vet, or when they come home from boarding. Pomskies thrive when they have a predictable routine and schedule, which means their owners are typically controlling every part of their life. Sniff walks offer your dog some control over where you are going, and your dog will feel like they have more freedom and are not being directed or pulled. As with any walks, make sure you have the right supplies during your sniff walk including a six foot leash, harness and training treats. If you need help choosing which type of harness to use while walking, check out our Best Collar and Harness for a Pomsky Dog post.

Where To Go on a Sniff Walk

When you plan to take your dog on a sniff walk consider how busy the area is, if the area is clean, and if there are other distractions that will make the walk less enjoyable for your dog. Consider taking your dog to a local or state park with hiking trails. Try to find an area that is not too busy, so your dog feels like they have time to stop and sniff, and don’t feel like they need to be constantly watching their surroundings for unfamiliar sounds or people.

Important Considerations/Cautions

When you are walking your pomsky dog, it is always important to focus your attention on your dog and your surroundings. During sniff walks, it is especially important to look ahead in the direction your pomsky dog will be walking and check for any potential hazards such as:

Animals
Animal droppings
Bushes and plants with spikes
Poison Ivy or other hazardous plants
Garbage or broken glass

Finding the Right Balance

Pomsky dogs require both exercise walks and sniff walks to establish a healthy and balanced lifestyle. You can go on exercise walks and sniff walks each day and adjust which type of walk you are going on based on your pomsky’s energy level. If your pomsky dog starts their walk at a fast pace and is eager to keep going, then you can go on a brisk walk or even jog to provide your dog with physical exercise. If your dog keeps pulling you to the grass to sniff and explore, give them some time to lead with their nose. You can always do a combination walk, with some fast-paced walking, making an intentional stop to sniff, then resuming your brisk walk to keep your dog’s endurance up.

Summary

Keep your pomsky dog healthy by giving them time to learn about their surroundings through sniff walks. Find the right area to bring your dog, where they feel comfortable and can take the time to explore their environment. Always look ahead of where your dog is walking, and transition between sniff walks and exercise walks to keep your pomsky physically and mentally healthy.