That brisk 5km run might be making your dog MORE stressed. Here's why your pup needs a 'sniffari' instead.
A dog's smell is 100,000x sharper than yours. To them, sniffing a gum tree is like reading the morning newspaper. It's how they process the world.
Deep sniffing activates the parasympathetic nervous system. It naturally slows their heart rate and melts away cortisol levels.
Use a 5-10 metre long line. It gives your pup the freedom to explore without the constant 'tug' of being in work mode.
Processing one square metre of Aussie bushland is more exhausting than a long run. Mental fatigue beats physical stamina for a calm home life.
Avoid busy dog parks. Hit quiet school ovals or local bush tracks during off-peak hours to let their guard down and noses go to work.
Swap the collar for a Y-front harness. It protects their neck and throat when they follow a scent into the scrub or thick grass.
When it's too hot for a high-intensity run, a slow-paced sniffari in the shade prevents heatstroke while still tiring out your energetic pup.
Dog too wired? Toss high-value treats into the grass. This forces slow, methodical sniffing that grounds their energy immediately.
Giving your dog autonomy reduces stress. In a world of 'sit' and 'stay', let them choose the direction for 30 minutes of pure exploration.
Stay alert for snakes and ticks in the long grass. Keep them out of deep burrows and check their fur once you're back home.
Stop measuring distance and start measuring discovery. A sniff-led dog is a mentally fulfilled dog who is ready to relax at home.
Get the full gear list, timing tips, and our top 5 quiet Aussie locations for a perfect decompression walk.