In preparation for National Walk Your Dog Week, which is Oct. 1-7, Pet360 surveyed more than 4,000 dog owners to find out how often the average canine is walked by a human companion.

The survey found that only 56 percent of dog owners walk their dog at least once per day.Even more surprising is the fact that 33 percent of respondents said they rarely take their dogs for a walk, preferring instead to let them out in the yard.While 75 percent of respondents did say their dogs get at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, those who choose not to take their four-legged friends for a stroll are missing out on the benefits regular walks provide both canine and human.To encourage pet owners to hit the pavement with their four-legged friends this fall, Pet360 has pulled together the Top Five Benefits of Walking Your Dog:1. Promotes weight control and digestive health: An overweight pet is an unhealthy pet. In addition to regulating your dog's diet, regular exercise will keep your pet fit, agile, and limber. Daily walks also support your pet's digestive health and aid in relieving occasional constipation.2. Alleviates destructive behavior and hyperactivity: Hitting the pavement with your pup can help reduce or eliminate your pet's destructive chewing, digging, or scratching.Pets are like children if you don't give them something constructive to do, they might take matters into their own paws. Evening walks can also help alleviate pent up energy, helping your dog feel more relaxed at bedtime.3. Strengthens your bond: Spending quality time together is extremely important to your dog's behavioral development.Daily walks help strengthen your bond and promote a trusting relationship.4. Encourages socialization: If you have a timid or fearful pet, strolling around the neighborhood can help your pooch build confidence and trust. Walks expose your pet to other humans and animals, which will help him or her adapt to new or intimidating situations.5. Helps your health, too: Walking a pet is sometimes regarded as a chore, but it should be thought of as a way for you and your canine to stay active. Getting outdoors with your pup in tow is beneficial for all involved and may even help you shed a few pounds in the process."Over 60 percent of humans in the United States are overweight or obese, and our pets mirror that statistic," says Dr. Katy Nelson, veterinary contributor to Pet360 and host of "The Pet Show with Dr. Katy."Taking our dogs for a walk not only helps them burn calories, build lean muscle mass and relieve stress, it can also provide those same benefits to the two-legger on the other end of the leash."