Did you know that January is Walk Your Dog Month? It’s the perfect excuse to grab the leash, pack some treats, and explore the great outdoors with your pet. With New Zealand’s stunning summer landscapes and long sunny days, there’s no better time to bond with your dog on a walk. To ensure your summer adventure is fun, safe, and memorable, follow these 10 tips—and don’t forget to check out our Great Pet Walks  guide for trail recommendations, tips and more designed for pet lovers like you!

1. Start Early or Go Late

Avoid the intense midday heat by planning your pet walk during the cooler parts of the day, like early morning or late afternoon. These are also the best times to catch scenic sunrises or sunsets.

2. Explore New Dog-Friendly Trails

New Zealand is full of pet-friendly walks, from shady forest walks to breezy coastal beaches. Not sure where to start? The Great Pet Walks guide highlights some of the best locations for pet walks, including beach spots where your dog can enjoy splashing in the waves.

3. Hydration Is Key

Summer walks can be thirsty work! Always carry plenty of water and nutrient-dense treats for you and your pet to power through.

Want to make your walks even easier? Enter our #AddictionGreatPetWalks contest for a chance to win a dog treat holder. It’s perfect for carrying snacks while keeping your hands free for the leash. Check the contest details below to join!

4. Protect Those Paws

Hot surfaces like sand, rocks, or pavement can be tough on your dog’s paws. Stick to grassy or shaded paths and consider paw wax or protective booties for added comfort.

For pet-friendly trails with softer surfaces, check out the Great Pet Walks guide to find the best routes near you.

5. Fuel Your Dog with the Right Nutrition

A long summer walk needs the right energy, and that starts with the food you choose. Addiction Pet Food, made with high-quality and freshly-sourced New Zealand meat , ensures your pet gets the optimal nutrition they need to stay active and healthy .

Not sure what to try? Visit our sampling site to discover the perfect food for your pet and give them the fuel they deserve for epic adventures!

6. Bug Off!

New Zealand’s lush outdoors are teeming with life, but some insect wildlife can pose a risk to your pet. Common pests include fleas, ticks, mosquitoes, and sandflies. Ticks, in particular, are prevalent in bushy or grassy areas and can transmit diseases. Sandflies, found near rivers or damp areas, can irritate your dog’s skin and cause itching or rashes.

For added protection, use a vet-recommended flea and tick treatment, and consider applying a pet-safe insect repellent before your walk. After each outing, thoroughly check your pet’s fur, ears, and paws for ticks, bites, or signs of irritation.

7. Respect Wildlife

New Zealand’s trails are home to unique and precious wildlife from native birds to lizards and even kiwi sanctuaries. Respecting wildlife means minimizing disturbances to their natural habitat.

  • Keep your pet leashed in areas where wildlife is present to prevent chasing or stressing animals.
  • Stay on marked paths to avoid trampling plants or disrupting ground-nesting birds.
  • Observe wildlife from a distance—getting too close can scare animals or expose them to danger.

8. Know Your Dog’s Limits

Every dog is different. Choose walking routes that match your pet’s energy and fitness level, and take plenty of breaks to rest and cool off.

Not sure which trails suit your dog? Visit the Great Pet Walks guide to discover routes tailored for all activity levels.

9. Leave Only Pawprints

Always clean up after your pet and leave the trails as beautiful as you found them. Use biodegradable waste bags and dispose of them properly.

10. Dress for the Season

New Zealand’s summer can bring unpredictable weather, from sunny skies to sudden rain showers. Equip yourself and your pet with the right gear:

·         Lightweight, breathable clothing for you.

·         A cooling vest or bandana for your dog to help beat the heat.

·         A compact raincoat for those unexpected downpours.

Join the Great Pet Walks and Contest!
Celebrate Walk Your Dog Month by participating in our Great Pet Walks! Explore New Zealand’s scenic trails while connecting with other pet lovers. Share your favorite moments and walks with us in the #AddictionGreatPetWalks contest for a chance to win merch and a bag of Addiction Pet Food product!

Here’s how to join:

1.      Follow @AddictionPetNZ on Instagram and @AddictionPetFoodsNZ on Facebook.

2.      Post your best photos or videos from the Great Pet Walks, and use the hashtag #AddictionGreatPetWalks to enter.

Let’s celebrate the great outdoors with our pets! 🌿 Entries close January 31st—don’t miss out!

Kick off the year on the right paw by embracing Walk Your Dog Month and the beauty of New Zealand’s summer walks. And remember, every great adventure starts with great nutrition. Choose Addiction Pet Food to fuel your pets with wholesome, natural energy for all their outdoor escapades. Click here to read more about our Great Pet Walks !