How to Walk Your Dog
Walking your dog is essential to their well being. It improves their physical and mental health, and gives them something to look forward to! Walking your dog may seem simple, but a lot more goes into the process than meets the eye.
First, we’ll discuss what you need to get started!
- Properly fitting leash and collar
- This is the most important item that you need to purchase before taking your furry friend out for their walk. The leash attaches to the collar and allows the owner control of their dog, to stop them from running away, attacking other animals, or running out onto a street. Leash walking is also proper etiquette, especially in neighborhoods. Our clinic recommends using a leash 6 feet long or shorter so your dog can walk next to or right in front of you. To read more about the best leash types for your dog, check out this article! You may find it difficult to train your dog to properly walk on a leash, but if you have trouble, consider contacting a professional dog walker/trainer!
- Treats
- Not everyone may think to bring treats on their walks, but these can be very important. Treats help keep your dog interested in you throughout the walk. They are also great for new dog owners who are leash training puppies!
- Waste bags
- Although you may not relish the idea of carrying these around, these small disposable bags are a necessity for walking your pup. It’s your duty to pick up after your pet, then find the nearest dumpster for disposal. Picking up after your pet helps keep areas clean, and keeps fellow pedestrians happy. It also helps control the spread of intestinal parasites and other illnesses (such as Parvo) that may be in the feces.
How does the weather impact your walk?
Hot weather:
If it is hot outside, make sure to check the pavement to see if it is cool enough for your dog’s paws. Follow the 5 second rule to make sure that your dog’s feet are protected during their walk! Touch the back of your hand to the ground and hold it for 5 seconds. If it is too hot for you to keep your hand on the ground for the full 5 seconds, the ground is too hot for your pup. Certain dog breeds, like brachycephalic breeds with shorter skulls (such as pugs and bulldogs) are at an increased risk of heat stroke and should not be walked in hot weather at all.
Rainy weather:
If it is raining very hard, or your dog doesn’t like the rain, pick a different time or day to take your walk. Better to be safe than sorry!
Cold weather:
If it is too cold for you, it might be too cold for your pup. You can bundle up yourself and your dog, or choose a different time/day for your walk.
Top tips for your walk:
- Establish a routine
Try to take your dog for a walk every day, at the same time. When starting out, walk the same path, for easier training. After your dog is well trained on their leash, bring them to new locations to keep them excited. Overall, establishing a daily routine gives your pup something to look forward to, and the physical activity helps keep them healthy!
- Keep them from trash on the ground
Pay close attention to your dog while walking with them. If you see trash, keep them away from it. It could contain toxins, or other substances that could harm them.
- Going for a long walk?
If you plan on going for a long walk, carry a portable water bowl and water with you, so your pup doesn’t get dehydrated!
- Walk during the day
If you can, walk your dog during the day. Especially as it gets colder, daytime will provide the best weather, and safer conditions for you and your pet. If you have to walk in the dark, make sure you and your dog wear light colors and reflective gear so you can be easily seen by other people and cars.
- Let your dog sniff around
According to the American Kennel Club, dogs experience the world through their nose. You may not want your dog to waste time sniffing everything in their path, but letting them sniff to explore their surroundings, even for 5-10 minutes, allows for good mental stimulation.
- Make sure your dog has identification on them!
Get your dog microchipped or have your information on their collar in case they get lost during your walk!
- Keep a positive attitude
Leash training can be stressful at the beginning, so start slow and train a little at a time. Then, adjust your training routine according to your pet’s needs to create the best possible experience for you and your pet!
We hope that you found these tips helpful, and that you and your furry friend are able to bond over your fun walking experience!
For more helpful tips, call (817)-617-7387, or email us at contact@lowcostpetvet.net
Happy walking!