A leading canine behavioural specialist has issued a compelling piece of advice for dog owners across the UK, highlighting a simple daily activity that can dramatically improve a pet's wellbeing.
The Power of the 'Sniffari'
Expert Paula O'Sullivan, sharing her insights on TikTok, emphasised the critical importance of what she terms a 'sniffari' – a walk where the dog's nose leads the way. She stated that dedicating just 20 minutes to this scent-focused activity can be as beneficial for a dog as a full hour of aerobic exercise.
"Did you know that a 20-minute 'sniff walk' is equivalent to an hour's aerobic exercise for your dog?" O'Sullivan asked her followers. She explained that this approach is particularly valuable for dogs with limited mobility, including puppies, elderly dogs, or those recovering from injury.
The Science Behind Sniffing
O'Sullivan provided fascinating physiological data to back her claim. She noted that a resting dog takes approximately 30 breaths per minute. This rate doubles to around 60 during a walk and can reach 90 when running. However, the act of sniffing sends this rate soaring. "When they are sniffing, it's 150 breaths per minute," she revealed, illustrating just how stimulating the activity is for a canine's system.
Beyond physical exertion, sniffing offers profound mental enrichment. "Sniffing is hugely dopamine-activating," O'Sullivan explained. This means dogs derive great pleasure from it. She reminded owners that dogs perceive the world primarily through scent, possessing a staggering 300 million scent receptors compared to a human's mere five million.
Practical Advice for Owners
O'Sullivan urged all dog owners to harness this knowledge. "If your dog has limited exercise at the moment or you're just short on time and want a quick walk on your lunch break, then take them on a 20-minute 'sniffari'," she advised. The key is to let the dog set the pace and investigate any interesting smells, providing a potent workout for their mind and body.
Her advice is supported by animal welfare organisations. The dog charity Battersea states online that 15 to 20 minutes of sniffing is comparable to an hour's walk, as it requires intense concentration to decode environmental information, leading to mental fatigue similar to physical exertion.
The expert's TikTok post sparked significant agreement from the dog-owning community. One user commented, "Yes, always allow your dog to sniff. I see some owners drag their dogs because they haven't got the patience." Another wrote, "My girl can sniff every grass blade if she wants to."
O'Sullivan also fielded questions from concerned owners. To one user wondering why their dog was sniffing excessively, she responded that it's natural but can increase in novel environments or just after rain. To another owner whose miniature dachshund showed little interest in sniffing, she suggested considering whether the dog might be feeling anxious, as sniffing with their head down can make them feel vulnerable.
Ultimately, the message from Paula O'Sullivan is clear: prioritising a dog's innate need to sniff during walks is not indulgent—it's essential. Incorporating a short, scent-led 'sniffari' into a daily routine can significantly enhance a dog's happiness, tire them out effectively, and strengthen the bond between pet and owner.
