How to Buy the Right Walking Buddy
New Year, New Resolution! This is the battle cry of Americans across the country as they look for ways to improve themselves.
The top New Year's resolution is to be healthy and lose weight.
Easier said than done, but nonetheless, the average person has good intentions and will put a plan in place to make that resolution stick into summer.
Walking is a great low impact form of exercise and is practiced by millions of people especially in the warmer months.
The die hards from last year are still at it even in cold weather as long as the sidewalks and bike paths are clear of snow and ice.
Many fitness gurus will tell you that using the buddy system to get started in an exercise program is a recommended approach that will help keep you on track.
However, some people just cannot get their spouse or kids to walk on a regular basis, which make those 3 mile jaunts very lonely.
The solution to this problem is to "buy a walking buddy".
In this case, your walking buddy is of the 4 legged canine variety.
The walker's best friend is indeed the family dog.
If you do not have a dog or one that can make the daily trek around the neighborhood, then it is time to go out and buy one.
Here are a few things to consider when buying a new walking buddy from the local shelter: 1.
Avoid Pet stores, since they are usually outlets for puppy mills 2.
Purchase an animal that is at least a few months old if you plan to walk him/her right away.
If not, the 8 week puppy will do, but will not be able to walk with you until he is a bit older.
Do not go for a dog that is "long in the tooth" as they will only be able to keep up for only so long before they begin to feel old age kicking in.
3.
Research the breed that best matches your family's temperament and style 4.
If you are alone, consider an animal that matches your personality, style and living space.
5.
Finally, look for a breed that can complement your walking style.
If you walk fast, go with a medium to larger dog, depending upon #4.
Smaller dogs are good for slow walkers that may be in their 40's or beyond.
6.
Males will want to mark territory at every opportunity, this habit can be managed, but it can be a contributing factor to your decision In summary, selecting a dog to buy as a walking buddy is one way to get out and exercise without having to enlist other family members or friends if it is not their cup of tea.
A canine walking buddy will always want to take the trip and be especially accommodating around your schedule.
Don't forget the poop bags.
The top New Year's resolution is to be healthy and lose weight.
Easier said than done, but nonetheless, the average person has good intentions and will put a plan in place to make that resolution stick into summer.
Walking is a great low impact form of exercise and is practiced by millions of people especially in the warmer months.
The die hards from last year are still at it even in cold weather as long as the sidewalks and bike paths are clear of snow and ice.
Many fitness gurus will tell you that using the buddy system to get started in an exercise program is a recommended approach that will help keep you on track.
However, some people just cannot get their spouse or kids to walk on a regular basis, which make those 3 mile jaunts very lonely.
The solution to this problem is to "buy a walking buddy".
In this case, your walking buddy is of the 4 legged canine variety.
The walker's best friend is indeed the family dog.
If you do not have a dog or one that can make the daily trek around the neighborhood, then it is time to go out and buy one.
Here are a few things to consider when buying a new walking buddy from the local shelter: 1.
Avoid Pet stores, since they are usually outlets for puppy mills 2.
Purchase an animal that is at least a few months old if you plan to walk him/her right away.
If not, the 8 week puppy will do, but will not be able to walk with you until he is a bit older.
Do not go for a dog that is "long in the tooth" as they will only be able to keep up for only so long before they begin to feel old age kicking in.
3.
Research the breed that best matches your family's temperament and style 4.
If you are alone, consider an animal that matches your personality, style and living space.
5.
Finally, look for a breed that can complement your walking style.
If you walk fast, go with a medium to larger dog, depending upon #4.
Smaller dogs are good for slow walkers that may be in their 40's or beyond.
6.
Males will want to mark territory at every opportunity, this habit can be managed, but it can be a contributing factor to your decision In summary, selecting a dog to buy as a walking buddy is one way to get out and exercise without having to enlist other family members or friends if it is not their cup of tea.
A canine walking buddy will always want to take the trip and be especially accommodating around your schedule.
Don't forget the poop bags.
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