The benefits of practising mindfulness have been well documented for humans but today’s pet parents believe that it could also have a positive effect on their pooches. 

With the 2020 Petcare Innovation Summit advocating that, ‘the humanisation trend and changing consumer behaviours’ are, ‘ forcing some of the industries most seasoned pet brands to diversify their existing portfolio’, millennial dog lovers are reported to be actively pursuing ways to have a more meaningful and emotional connection with their four-legged dependents. 

The NHS website offers the following explanation about ‘Mindfulness’: 

“Paying more attention to the present moment – to your own thoughts and feelings, and to the world around you – can improve your mental wellbeing. Becoming more aware of the present moment can help us enjoy the world around us more and understand ourselves better.” 

Most dogs already possess a natural inclination to live in the here and now, making the most of every moment, but this can be further enhanced by taking a more mindful approach to dog care and training. 

Lisa Mercer, In-house Dog Behaviourist at Barking Mad’s Support Centre and member of the Association of Pet Dog Trainers (APDT) said:  

“Taking a more mindful approach to your dog’s training and exercise routine can be hugely beneficial. It’s all about enrichment and letting your dog just “be a dog”.  Rather than repetitive retrieving reaching high intensity levels, it is much better to make their walks more enriching and to experience what comes naturally, such setting up some outdoor scentwork games. Fifteen minutes mental stimulation is equal to an hour’s off-lead run, and is both highly rewarding and therapeutic for dog and owner.” 

With mindfulness reported to help relieve stress, lower blood pressure, improve quality of sleep and improve overall well-being and mental health, it’s definitely something worth considering for you and your beloved four-legged best friend. Mindfulness is of special interest to Trustpilot 5* rated dog sitting franchise, Barking Mad, who arrange care for dogs whose owners are away, matching them with carefully chosen host families.  

Barking Mad Managing Director, Rachel Stewart, said: 

“The reason that the Barking Mad dog sitting service delights customers is all down to the attention we pay to the individual dog’s personality, in particular their likes and dislikes and how we maintain their routine. If owners are advocates of mindfulness for dogs, we can continue with this in their absence. Dogs really do live in the moment with their host families, enjoying all the comforts of a home from home and lots of new walks with exciting scents and sights. 

This personalised service is the reason why our franchisees are successful and love what they do. Starting your own business with the support, experience and the leading brand name of Barking Mad is a flexible, family-friendly way to work with dogs and be your own boss.”