write a list of why you want to walk your dog more

This is the week to get motivated: How will your dog benefit from better walks? What will be the benefits to you? Make a list to remind yourself of why you’re doing this and what you want to achieve, and put it up in a place where you will see it each day as a reminder such as your fridge or kitchen pin board.

start a dog walking diary to help you keep track

Each day during week one, write down how often and how long you walked your dog, how you felt when you did it, what else you had on that day, and why you did, or didn’t, walk. Where do you spend time in your day that could be spent walking instead?

week 1 barrier busting

‘my dog is too young… or too old’

“Puppies need much less exercise than fully-grown dogs. A good rule of thumb is a ratio of five minutes exercise per month of age (up to twice a day) until the puppy is fully grown, i.e. 15 minutes (up to twice a day) when three months old, 20 minutes when four months old etc.

“If you have an older dog, perhaps choose shorter but more regular walks rather than long ones. If in doubt check with your vet.”

don’t forget to print your diary

to keep track of your challenge

print the diary

back to 'take the challenge'

week 2: set your goals