If there is one thing dogs need a lot of, it’s exercise. Fortunately, Essex dog owners can vary their routes and enjoy a wide range of different environments when they’re out with their pooches. For inspiration, take a look at these five local dog walks in and around Essex:
1. Langdon Hills Country Park
Comprised of woodland and meadows, Langdon Hills Country Park is an excellent place to walk your dog and enjoy unparalleled views over London. Although there is a slight climb in some places, overall, it’s an easy walk, with 3km routes available. What’s more – there’s free parking available, so you can visit as frequently as you like, without worrying about your budget.
2. Dedham Vale
Situated on the border of Essex and Suffolk, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty really does live up to its name. With a designated walk of 11.4km to enjoy, you and your pooch can set out on a long-haul hike at any time and reward yourselves with a quick bite at the Boathouse restaurant afterwards (dogs are permitted in the outside seating area). Do beware that a river runs through the Vale, so, if your dog loves water, be sure to pack a towel!
3. Debden
The picturesque village of Debden is popular with dog walkers (and not just because it has a fantastic dog-friendly pub!). A circular route through the villages run to approximately 3.5km and takes you through open fields, woodland, and along the river. However, it can be a muddy route, so deck yourself (and your dog) out accordingly.
4. Epping Forest
If you’re a dog owner in Essex, chances are you’ve already got a favourite route through this ancient woodland. With so many trails to explore, however, it’s well worth trying something new. Designated walks range from 1.25 miles to 16 miles, so you’re sure to find a route that’s perfect for you and your pooch.
5. Hatfield Forest
Owned by the National Trust, Hatfield Forest isn’t just scenic, it’s surrounded by history and culture too. A dog-friendly café on-site ensures you’ve got the perfect place to relax at the end of your stroll and the range of trails means you can enjoy a short work, a moderate hike, or a longer adventure.
How Much Exercise Does Your Dog Need?
All dogs need a healthy amount of exercise but it’s important not to over-exert your canine companion. Adult Labradors may require more than two hours of exercise a day, for example, whereas a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel may be satisfied with around one hour. Of course, puppies and older dogs don’t tend to require as much exercise as fit, adult dogs, so bear this in mind when you’re planning which route to take. If you’re unsure how much exercise your dog needs, be sure to talk to your vet.
Boost Your Dog’s Energy
Like humans, dogs need the right fuel to give them energy, which means feeding them a healthy diet. If you want to boost your dog’s energy, you might want to try introducing them to a raw food diet. With this handy raw feeding guide for puppies from Bella & Duke, you can find out exactly how and why dogs thrive on raw food. Not only do Bella & Duke may raw feeding easier than ever, with pre-prepared food and subscriptions, they also ensure that your dog gets to enjoy a healthy, natural diet with no unnecessary, energy-zapping additives.
What to Take on Your Dog Walk
If you’re heading out for the day with your pooch, you’ll want to ensure you’ve got all the essentials with you. Even if your dog has good recall, you should always take a strong lead with you, as you never know when you’ll need to keep your dog close to you.
Similarly, a plentiful supply of fresh water and a bowl should be a firm fixture. In addition to this, you might find that training treats come in handy while you’re out, along with bags to pick up after your dog. If you’re walking in muddy terrain or woodland, a towel to dry your dog off is also essential and, in cold weather, a coat or blanket for the journey home is always welcome.
Once you’ve packed your dog’s gear, you’ll be able to think about what you might need too! If you’re going somewhere new, be sure to tell someone where you’re heading and what time you expect to be back. A fully charged phone may come in useful, although bear in mind you might not be able to get a signal if you’re going to a remote location. By researching the route in advance, however, you can ensure that you and your pup have a fantastic time exploring the many wonderful walks in and around the county.
