You missed a walk because of the rain, then because of work, and on the third day you decided: “No big deal, he’ll run around at home.”
But a dog is not a cat. For it, a walk is not just a toilet and a warm-up. It is a necessity comparable to breathing.
And this is what happens when you deprive her of that for just 72 hours.
The first 24 hours. The dog is bored, but remains calm. It may follow you around, nuzzle the leash, or bring you toys — these are attempts to remind you of itself.
If the reaction is zero, anxiety sets in. The pet chews furniture, scratches doors, rummages through trash. This is not mischief - this is how he relieves stress and tries to "find" a walk on his own.
48 hours. Instincts take over. The dog, especially active breeds, becomes hyper-excitable. It runs around the apartment, barks at every rustle, trembles.
Some people start to shit at home, even if they used to tolerate it. This is not a protest, but physiology. Muscles, not receiving a load, spasm, and the intestines work worse. Constipation or, conversely, incontinence occurs.
72 hours. Behavior changes dramatically. Some dogs become apathetic: they lie down, do not respond to commands, and refuse to eat.
Others show aggression: growl, bite, defend "their" corners. This is a sign of deep stress. Cortisol, a hormone that destroys the nervous system, accumulates in the body. Immunity deteriorates, chronic diseases worsen.
But there are hidden consequences. Dogs, especially puppies, learn through walks. Smells, meeting other animals, new routes - it's like learning, socialization and sports all rolled into one. By depriving them of this, you slow down their development. The pet may become fearful or, on the contrary, uncontrollable.
What to do if walking is impossible? At least simulate a walk at home. Throw a ball down the hallway, hide treats for the dog to find, use training mats with scents.
If the dog is small, carry it in your arms into the yard so that it can breathe air.
But remember: these are emergency measures. Without movement, a dog loses a part of itself. Its world shrinks to the walls, and for a creature created to run after prey, this is tantamount to a prison.
So next time you feel like skipping a walk, remember: You're not just depriving your pet of a bathroom. You're depriving him of a reason to live.
Author: Kurchev Anton