Did you know that walking your dog entails much more than just meandering around the streets of your neighbourhood?
A walk is an effective way to stimulate your dog mentally and physically, but the key to a successful walk is understanding how to meet your dog’s needs while pounding the pavement!
There are multiple methods to approach a walk, structured, unstructured, a ‘sniffari’, agility, or decompression. The various types of dog walks serve different purposes, and factors like age, health, energy levels, breed, and behaviour can impact the type of walk your dog needs.
Once you have all your dog walking essentials, like a harness, sturdy lead, poop bags and any ball launchers and other toys, you can head out and start your adventure. The goal of a walk is not to exhaust the dog – while exerting their energy is important, a tired dog is not always a happy dog.
So, let’s dig deeper into the different styles of dog walks you can enjoy with your furry friend.
Learn the 5 styles of dog walking
1. Structured
A structured walk is exactly what it sounds like! A structured dog walk achieves a specific goal or task. A structured walk can be as simple as getting into a routine, working on training such as loose leash walking or working on behavioural issues such as reactivity.
Think of this style as a walking classroom: focused, goal-oriented, and great for bonding through learning.
Most suited to: Dogs in training, reactive or anxious dogs, dogs who thrive on structure and routine.
IMPORTANT NOTE: A structured walk should only be done when the dog is in the green or yellow zone of learning, meaning their arousal levels are managed and they are capable of listening and it will be constructive. Take a look at this diagram below 👇
2. Unstructured
This is your classic, everyday walk. There’s no set goal other than to let your dog move, explore, and enjoy themselves at their own pace. It might include a bit of playtime at the park, a chance to say hello to other dogs, or simply a relaxing loop around the block.
Unstructured walks are ideal for most dogs and are often the go-to option for busy pet parents. They offer exercise, enrichment, and socialisation in a natural and flexible way—perfect for dogs without specific behavioural concerns.
Most suited to: Easygoing, social, or well-adjusted dogs; everyday walking needs.
3. A Sniffari
A walk dedicated to mental stimulation, it simply provides an opportunity for the dog to follow their nose at their own pace to create calm but fulfilling mental stimulation. A sniffari should have no finish line, no time, distance, location or any other expectations and the lead should always be loose.
Most suited to: This style is great for dogs who are anxious, older, recovering from illness, or just need a break from high-energy outings. A good sniff can be as tiring (and satisfying!) as a run.
4. Agility
Ready to take things up a notch? An agility walk is a fun, low-pressure way to combine physical movement and mental stimulation—all without needing a full agility course.
You can use the kid’s playground at the park (if it’s empty, of course) or turn your backyard into a mini playground by encouraging your dog to:
Jump over logs, benches, or puddles
Balance on low walls or walk along raised surfaces
Navigate stairs or uneven terrain
Weave around poles, trees, or even your legs
Climb, crawl, or problem-solve their way through safe environments
Agility walks are fantastic for energetic or working breeds who thrive on having a job to do. They build confidence, improve coordination, and break up the routine of a typical walk. Plus, they’re a great way to bond as you guide your dog through new challenges!
Most suited to: High-energy, intelligent, or working breeds; dogs who enjoy problem-solving or learning new tricks.
5. Decompression
Decompression walks help your dog unwind and self-regulate. These slow-paced, low-stress outings allow your pup to be fully present and in control of their experience. While a sniffari can be a form of decompression, other forms include:
Long-line walks in quiet, open areas
Letting your dog roll in the grass
Giving them space to meander off-path
Observing the environment without pressure or direction
Decompression walks are especially helpful for dogs that have recently been stressed, overwhelmed, or overstimulated. They encourage self-soothing and support your dog’s mental and emotional balance.
Most suited to: Overstimulated, anxious, or reactive dogs; dogs adjusting to new environments or routines.
Which dog walking style will you practice next?
So there you have it – now that you’re familiar with the different types of dog walks and their unique benefits, you can tailor your outings to suit your canine companion’s specific needs. Structured walks offer mental focus, unstructured walks provide freedom and bonding time, sniffaris and agility walks offer mental and physical challenges, while decompression walks ensure your dog’s overall well-being.
Each dog walking style has something special to offer, so mix and match to keep your dog engaged, happy, and healthy on every adventure. Remember, it’s not just a walk—it’s an opportunity to unleash the joy of exploration for your furry friend!
Need someone to take the leash?
We get it, with many responsibilities it can be challenging to find the time each day to take your furry friend for the walk they need and deserve. That’s why we have an abundance of Dog Walkers all around Australia, ready to take the lead.
