Do you have a dog? If you do, he has become part of your family. You love him like you love your other family members. Because you love him, you want to take care of him so that he will be able to live a long, healthy life. You feed him, bathe him, take him to get his vaccinations, and pay attention to him. You also take him for daily walks. Why would a dog need daily walks? Dogs need daily walks because they are like people in many ways.

One way that dogs are like people is that both dogs and people need exercise. Without exercise, both dogs and people become sluggish. They cannot do as much work, or as high quality work, unless they exercise. With exercise, on the other hand, they can do more and better work.

Second, dogs and people can both develop health conditions, such as diabetes. With exercise and a proper diet, however, many health conditions can be prevented.

Third, both dogs and people get restless. Some dogs may spend their days on the couch, watching television or sleeping. Others may pace around the house. People sit in front of computers every day, checking emails, surfing the Internet, typing online articles, or writing papers for a class. After so much sitting, people may find themselves feeling sleepy. On the other hand, they may have plenty of energy but be unable to focus on what they are trying to do. A quick walk will fix the situation. Sleepy people will be energized, and those who need to focus will experience clearer thinking.

Fourth, both dogs and people need proper sleep in order to stay well and be healthy. A lack of exercise can cause poor sleep. Regular exercise, on the other hand, helps both dogs and people to be tired at bedtime so that they can easily drift off to sleep.

Walking your dog every day will benefit both of you. You and your dog will both get exercise. You will both be able to get out of the house and socialize with others. By having a dog by your side, you will have companionship and safety. That way, you can walk or run without worrying about being attacked. By taking your dog for a walk, you can work out when you want to, rather than waiting until family or friends come home from work so that they can go with you.

Take your dog for a walk today. The two of you will have a chance to bond and spend some time together, and you will both be healthier.