When you think of walking your dog, do you picture a brisk stroll around the block, tugging them along as they pause to sniff every lamppost and blade of grass? If so, it might be time to rethink your walk routine—because for your dog, sniffing isn’t just a distraction. It’s mental exercise.

Here’s why sniffing is one of the most important things your dog can do:

The Power of the Nose

• Dogs have up to 300 million scent receptors (humans have about 5 million).
• Their brains are wired to process scents—40 times more brain area is devoted to smell than in humans.
• They can detect layers of scents, track time by smell, and even identify emotions in humans through scent alone.

Sniffing Is Mental Stimulation

• Just 10 minutes of sniffing can be as tiring as a 30-minute walk.
• Dogs explore the world with their noses—sniffing is their version of scrolling through social media.
• It activates their brain, satisfies curiosity, and keeps them mentally sharp.

Sniffing Supports Emotional Health

• Dogs allowed to sniff freely show lower heart rates and stress levels.
• It’s a form of canine mindfulness—keeping them grounded and focused.
• Encouraging sniffing can help reduce boredom, anxiety, and destructive behaviours at home.

Ways to Encourage Healthy Sniffing

• “Sniffaris”: Take your dog on walks where the goal is to let them sniff at their own pace.
• Use longer leashes to give them freedom to explore.
• Add scent games or nose work puzzles to your daily routine.
• Hide treats around the yard or house for a fun game of “find it!”

It’s Not Just a Walk—It’s an Adventure

Letting your dog sniff isn’t spoiling them. It’s supporting their natural instincts, mental health, and overall happiness. Think of sniffing as reading the neighbourhood newspaper—they’re catching up on the latest “pee-mails” and checking out the scent trail of squirrels and friends.

So next time you’re out walking, slow down and sniff the roses—or at least let your dog do it. They’ll thank you with a wagging tail and a well-exercised brain.