Walking your dog can be a calming activity for both and your pet. It can also be exhausting and frustrating too if you do not have the certain tools and the basic knowledge of dog walking with a leash. Your pooch and you will enjoy this activity together if you follow some of these simple guidelines. Nothing is more tiring than being dragged down the street by your furry friend!
Let’s start with the leash!
Everyone has their own preference for what leash like to walk their dog with.
- Flexi-leads are best for those walks where a dog can venture out a bit from his handler like a park, field…etc. You can use this leash at a park if there is no heavy traffic of people walking by you closely or if there is other dogs in the vicinity. In high traffic area, it is best to keep your dog close to your side
- Though metal or chain type of leashes may be heavy and hard on the hand, they are good for those dogs that like to bite, chew and tug on leashes while you are on your adventure together.
- Leather leashes are a good preference because they are easiest on the hands, sturdy and last a long time.
- Nylon leashes are probably the most stylish. They can come in many colors and designs and they do hold up well especially in the rainy and snowy weather. They may give you that color coordinated look with your pooch’s collar and your walking shoes, but they can also burn your hands if your dog pulls a lot or lunges forward without any warning.
Being dragged down the street?
Continuous pulling when being walked on a leash makes walks stressful for both of you. Your dog can be doing this because of lack of training to being too enthusiastic about his adventure with his Master.
- Until your dog learns to walk without pulling try going for short training walks at first. Keep training sessions frequent, short and fun for your dog. But before you go on your short walk, try tiring your dog out in the back yard a bit playing fetch. Your dog may be more apt to walk slower if he was a little wore-out from running after his favorite ball!
- Rewarding your dog for not pulling is a requirement! Dogs learn best when they are being rewarded for doing a good job! Use treats that your pooch loves but doesn’t get on a regular basis.
- If your dog loves to trot or run, walk at a quick pace. This gives your furry friend fewer opportunities to smell something that really interests him or her, and they’ll be less inclined to stop and or tug to go in another direction. Also, your dog will find your adventure together more interesting and fun if you are moving quickly.
- If your dog starts acting wild and crazy in the beginning of your walk, stop and stand still showing that your romp around the neighbor will not happen if they continue to act in this excitable behavior.
Don’t forget your supplies.
- Long walks with your dog can be so much fun! But be prepared if it is hot outside. If you are planning on a long journey through the neighborhood or park, be sure to bring water for your furry friend.
- Bringing treats for your dog to reward him or her for good behavior while walking, especially if you are still in the training stage. Plus, who would not want a treat while they are taking a break!
- Poop bags are a must! Be respectful of others property and for others running around in the park you are at. Always bring extra poop bags, if you’re going on a long walk.
Make your walk fun for you and your dog!
- There is nothing more exciting than a new adventure for your dog. Visit new places. Fido will love experiencing new smells, things to see and sounds of a new locations.
- If your dog is well behaved with other furry canines, walk over to your local dog park! Your dog would love to meet other friends to run around with.
- Dogs love walking buddies. If your dog gets along with other dogs, do a group walk. Invite your neighbors or family members with dogs to join you and your pooch!
Remember to be patient during the training of walking your dog. They are excited to get out there and explore. But with consistent training and routine, your dog will catch on and both of you will enjoy your walking time together.
