Dog owners may notice that their walks suddenly take twice as long in spring, as their pets become distracted by every new smell. According to Jo Hinds, a COAPE-certified behaviourist and Dynamic Dog Practitioner at Years, the change is driven by a significant increase in outdoor scents.
Dogs rely on their sense of smell far more than humans, and spring brings a 'sensory explosion' from plants, wildlife, and other animals. With fewer scents in winter, dogs are eager to explore the new information available during warmer months.
Hinds emphasises that sniffing is important mental stimulation for dogs, aiding emotional regulation and reducing pulling on the lead. She advises owners to allow sniffing during walks rather than rushing their pets, as this provides enrichment and helps dogs gather information about their environment.
Common mistakes include pulling on the lead, which can make dogs stressed and reactive, and punishing sniffing behaviour. Experts recommend reward-based training and walking in quieter areas to balance exploration with discipline.
