Dog care: The importance of sniffing and paw protection

Experts in canine behavior emphasize that walking is not merely about physical exercise or covering distance, but about allowing dogs to explore their environment through scent. Veterinarian Mariam Martínez Ortega notes that sniffing helps dogs investigate their surroundings, collect information about other animals and people, and reduce accumulated stress. Forcing a constant pace by pulling the leash when a dog stops to sniff can be counterproductive to their natural instincts.

To complement safe walking habits, protecting a dog's paws is also essential, especially when traversing abrasive surfaces like asphalt in summer or snow in winter. Various protective footwear options are available, including breathable mesh boots with non-slip soles, waterproof protectors for extreme temperatures, and biodegradable rubber covers designed to protect against ice, salt, and chemicals.