Your dog's PERFECT walk lasts exactly 67 minutes - and must include 16 sniffs and a splash in water, study reveals

A dog's perfect walk should last exactly 67 minutes, include 16 opportunities to sniff and even feature a splash in water, according to a new survey.As part of a study, 1,800 owners were asked what kind of everyday outing their dog appeared to enjoy the most.Analysis revealed the majority believed the ideal walk would take place in open fields, woodland or parks, where their pet can explore and run freely.The ideal stroll lasts just over an hour, they found, and includes plenty of sniff stops, rolling in grass or mud and finding sticks.It also includes the chance to meet at least three friendly canine companions along the way – with an added bonus if there is some water to splash in.The poll revealed many believe their pet's enjoyment matters more than their own, with 38 per cent putting their dog's happiness first. However, nearly eight in 10 admitted they feel guilty about sticking to the same walking route every day.Jen Hipwell, head of veterinary services at Animal Friends Pet Insurance, which commissioned the research, said: ‘Walks are one of the best parts of life with a dog - a chance to spend time together, explore somewhere new and make the most of the summer safely.‘Every dog is different, so a great day out will look different depending on their age, breed, health, personality and confidence.’ The ideal stroll lasts just over an hour, a poll of 1,800 owners found, and includes plenty of sniff stops (file image) The findings have prompted pet experts to create a guide to some of Britain's best dog-walking routes to help owners find safe and stimulating places to explore. The Lake District, the New Forest and the South West Coast Path topped the wish listOverall, owners said safety was the most important factor when choosing a walking route, ahead of quiet surroundings and wide open spaces.The Lake District, the New Forest and the South West Coast Path topped the wish lists for dream dog-walking destinations.Weather conditions, how hot the ground was for their dog’s paws and the likelihood of encountering other pooches and livestock are top considerations before taking a pooch out.However, more than half of owners admitted they wouldn't know how to identify and avoid potential risks to their dog on walks – like steep terrain and coastal hazards.‘Before heading out, it's always worth checking your route in advance, as well as the weather and any local conditions that could affect your plans, particularly during periods of hot weather,’ Ms Hipwell said.‘Pack for your dog's needs, whether that's plenty of fresh water, treats, a lead, a favourite toy or somewhere comfortable to rest.’The findings have prompted pet experts to create a guide to some of Britain's best dog-walking routes to help owners find safe and stimulating places to explore.Last week, experts claimed you should be walking your dog up to five times a day.Professor Nicholas Dodman, CEO of the Center for Canine Behavior Studies, told the Daily Mail that owners should be going on 'at least three shortish walks plus two longer walks'.These daily jaunts should include longer walks for exercise as well as 'short walks for bathroom breaks, and to alleviate boredom'.Professor Dodman adds: 'An athletic breed of dog needs a longer walk of say three to five miles in the middle of the day and another couple of miles before dinner time.'However, experts say that this general rule should be adjusted to your dog's specific breed, disposition and habits.WHAT ARE THE TEN COMMONLY HELD MYTHS ABOUT DOGS?It is easy to believe that dogs like what we like, but this is not always strictly true. Here are ten things which people should remember when trying to understand their pets, according to animal behaviour experts Dr Melissa Starling and Dr Paul McGreevy, from the University of Sydney.1. Dogs don't like to share 2. Not all dogs like to be hugged or patted 3. A barking dog is not always an aggressive dog 4. Dogs do not like other dogs entering their territory/home5. Dogs like to be active and don't need as much relaxation time as humans 6. Not all dogs are overly friendly, some are shyer to begin with 7. A dog that appears friendly can soon become aggressive 8. Dogs need open space and new areas to explore. Playing in the garden won't always suffice 9. Sometimes a dog isn't misbehaving, it simply does not understand what to do or what you want 10. Subtle facial signals often preempt barking or snapping when a dog is unhappy