Not all dog walks are equal
Why scatter feeding your dog on walks is a great idea
Walking your dog is already a great way to keep them healthy and happy, but have you ever thought about adding a little twist to make it even better? Scatter feeding is a fun and easy way to do just that. It involves tossing small amounts of your dog’s food or treats into the grass or other surfaces during your walk. Here's why scatter feeding is such a fantastic idea:
Keeps their mind sharp
Dogs are natural foragers, and scatter feeding taps into this instinct. Searching for scattered food makes them think and problem-solve, giving their brain a workout. Mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise, and this adds an extra layer of fun to your walks.
Helps them eat slower
If your dog’s a gannet who tends to gulp down their food, scatter feeding can really help slow them down. By making them search for their food, they naturally take their time eating, which can help with digestion and reduce the risk of choking.
Engages their senses
Dogs experience the world through their noses, and scatter feeding provides a rich sensory experience. The varied scents and textures they come across while searching for food make walks more exciting and engaging for them.
Reduces Stress
Scatter feeding is such a calming activity for dogs. The process of searching and foraging can help reduce stress and provide a sense of satisfaction. This is especially helpful for dogs that get anxious on walks or in new environments.
Strengthens Your Bond
Scatter feeding turns a regular walk into a fun and interactive experience you can both enjoy. Watching your dog engage in this natural behaviour can strengthen the bond you share and give you insights into their personality and preferences. It also gives you a chance to stop and take in the scenery (if you’re lucky enough to have a view worth looking at!)
Improves Behaviour
For dogs that get easily distracted or reactive during walks, scatter feeding can be a great way to keep their focus on something positive. Over time, this can help improve their behaviour and make walks more pleasant for both of you.
How to get started with scatter feeding
Pick the right food
Begin with a small amount of food to see how your dog reacts. You could use a portion of the dogs breakfast or dinner or use something that smells quite strong to the dog to start with. Dried sprats are a great option but they are a bit stinky! Avoid anything that might upset their stomach.
Choose safe spots
Make sure the area where you scatter the food is safe and free from harmful substances like pesticides or sharp objects. Parks, your garden, or grassy areas along your walking route are good options. Just check that it’s an area where your dog won’t be startled by other people or dogs. Remember, this is supposed to be a fun and relaxing experience!
Use a cue word/phrase
When you scatter the food, wait for your dog to make eye contact with you then follow with ‘go find it’ and do this each time you scatter food. Your dog will soon learn that these words mean happy times ahead - by only when they look at you.
Watch them
Keep an eye on your dog to make sure they’re not eating anything harmful and that they’re enjoying the activity. It’s worth investing in a long line if your dog doesn’t have a reliable recall - 5 or 10 metres is good, depending on how far you’re happy to let them get away from you and the location you’re in. I recommend looking for a biothane one if you can as they are waterproof. Don’t make the same mistake I made by buying a fabric one. My newly arrived rescue dog got spooked and moved away quickly, taking the lead through my hands and causing a deep friction burn!
Scatter feeding during walks is a simple and fun way to enrich your dog’s life. It keeps their mind sharp, helps them eat slower, engages their senses, reduces stress, strengthens your bond, and can even improve their behavior. Give it a try on your next walk and see how much your dog enjoys it!
