Are daily dog walks always the best thing for your pup?

In this thought-provoking episode of The Yappy Hour, host Nathan Dunleavy chats with dog trainer, author, and advocate Niki French to challenge the traditional approach to dog walking.

Niki, author of Stop Walking Your Dog and creator of #DontWalkYourDogDay, shares why not all dogs benefit from daily walks and how alternative enrichment activities can be even more fulfilling.

If you’ve ever felt guilty about skipping a walk or wondered if there’s a better way to meet your dog’s needs, this episode is for you!

🐾 Why traditional daily walks aren’t always beneficial for every dog

🐾 How to identify if your dog struggles with walks

🐾 Enrichment activities that provide mental and physical stimulation

🐾 How giving dogs choices helps build confidence

🐾 The emotional impact of changing your routine and overcoming guilt

🐾 Everything you need to know about #DontWalkYourDogDay and how to get involved

• Some dogs experience stress or anxiety on walks, and forcing them outside daily isn’t always the best solution.
• Activities like scent work, puzzle games, free work, and interactive play can be more fulfilling than a walk.
• Giving your dog choices—like picking a chew or deciding where to explore—can help them feel safer and more confident.
• Pet parents should trust their instincts—if walks feel stressful, it’s okay to change things up.
• #DontWalkYourDogDay (April 2nd) raises awareness and supports pet parents in exploring alternatives to traditional walks.

💬 Do you have a dog that struggles with walks? Have you tried enrichment instead? Tag us on social media and let us know what works for you!

🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with fellow dog lovers!

👉 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!