What's a Rucksack Walk?

Welcome back to the Unleashed Blog! I'm Marsha CPDT-KA, and I'm excited to share something new I recently discovered – the Rucksack Walk!

Have you ever wondered what dogs do when left to their own devices? Well, Steven Mann, from the Institute of Modern Dog Trainers, had that same curiosity. He took an eye opening trip to Peru and noticed something interesting: dogs there roam freely in the streets during the day, even though they have homes. What's even more intriguing is that while these dogs have the freedom to go wherever they want, they actively seek out human company. Mann's observations sparked a revelation, leading to the creation of the Rucksack Walk – a unique activity that celebrates dogs' curiosity and companionship.

So, what exactly is a Rucksack Walk?

It's not quite your typical dog walk. Think of it as a mix of a peaceful stroll in a calm environment with the excitement of introducing new experiences to your dog. Instead, it's an immersive sensory adventure where you and your dog can bond while exploring the world around you.

Supplies you’ll need:

1. Pack a rucksack or backpack with a chew, a novel object, and two containers – one with an interesting scent and the other with a new type of food.

2. Get your dog ready with a comfortable harness, a long leash, and a treat pouch filled with good treats.

3. Find a quiet spot where you can spend 15-20 minutes uninterrupted with your dog.

Here's how to do it:

Begin with a relaxing stroll to your designated spot. Let your dog lead the way, stopping only if they start running or reach the end of the leash. Minimize the amount of talking you do, or keep it to a whisper. Focus on communicating with your dog non-verbally, reading their body language and responding to them with your own.

When you arrive at your destination, start by engaging your dog in a recall exercise to redirect their focus from the surroundings to you. Practice recalling your dog in a triangle pattern, moving from one point to another. This structured pattern helps make the exercise predictable, which dogs typically appreciate. It's important to maintain a relaxed energy throughout the exercise. While we often encourage excitement during recalls, for this exercise, we're aiming to promote calm behavior. When rewarding your dog, deliver the treat directly to their paws each time to enhance predictability.

After a few rounds, your dog should be nicely tuned in to you and you can move on to the next order of business - opening up the backpack and letting the exploration begin! Remove each object from the backpack one at a time. Allow your dog time to sniff, lick, and investigate each object fully. Each item you reveal becomes a fun surprise for your dog, engaging their senses and sparking their curiosity. Save the chew for last, as it gives them the chance to chew and release feel-good hormones, enhancing their enjoyment of the experience.

After the adventure, leisurely stroll back along the same route you took to get there, allowing your dog to revisit the familiar scents and sights.

Why are Rucksack Walks so great?

Bonding and Connection: Rucksack Walks offer a unique opportunity for you and your dog to strengthen your bond. As you both explore new scents, sights, and textures together, you'll create lasting memories and deepen your connection. The shared experience of discovery fosters trust and mutual understanding, enhancing the relationship between you and your canine companion.

Mental Stimulation: Just like humans, dogs need mental stimulation to keep their minds sharp and engaged. Rucksack Walks provide the perfect environment for mental enrichment, as your dog encounters novel objects, scents, and challenges. This mental exercise is essential for preventing boredom and behavioral issues, promoting overall well-being and happiness.

Physical Exercise: While Rucksack Walks may not be as physically demanding as traditional walks, they still offer valuable exercise for your dog. The exploration and sniffing involved in the activity provide low-impact aerobic exercise, helping to maintain your dog's physical health and vitality. Plus, the relaxed pace allows dogs of all ages and fitness levels to participate comfortably.

Stress Reduction: Many dogs find traditional walks stressful due to factors like crowded sidewalks, loud noises, and unfamiliar dogs. Rucksack Walks provide a calm and controlled environment where your dog can relax and enjoy their surroundings without feeling overwhelmed. This can be especially beneficial for reactive dogs or those with anxiety issues, allowing them to decompress and unwind in a safe space.

Enrichment and Learning: Dogs are natural explorers, constantly seeking out new experiences and challenges. Rucksack Walks offer a rich sensory experience, stimulating your dog's curiosity and encouraging them to engage with their environment. Each walk presents new opportunities for learning and growth, as your dog discovers unfamiliar scents, textures, and tastes.

Quality Time Together: In today's busy world, finding quality time to spend with your dog can be a challenge. Rucksack Walks provide a dedicated opportunity for you to focus solely on your furry friend, free from distractions and obligations. By immersing yourself in the experience together, you'll create cherished memories and strengthen your bond in meaningful ways.

Here are a few tips to make the most of your Rucksack Walks:

• Pack a variety of sensory items to keep things interesting.

• Let your dog take their time exploring each item.

• Start in familiar surroundings and gradually introduce new environments.

• Make Rucksack Walks a regular part of your routine for consistent enrichment.

As you embark on your Rucksack Walk adventures, pay attention to your dog's reactions. This will help you tailor future walks to their preferences and needs. To learn more about the Rucksack Walk, you can check out the podcast featuring Steve Mann, the creator of this innovative activity (Linked above). I’ve also linked a great Youtube video here so you can get a better idea of what the Rucksack Walk can look like, as well as a video with Steve Mann himself talking all about the Rucksack Walk. 

Overall, Rucksack Walks offer a holistic approach to canine enrichment and well-being, addressing both physical and mental needs while fostering a deeper connection between you and your dog. So, grab your backpack and leash, and embark on an adventure that will leave both of you smiling.