Does the thought of walking your dog terrify you? Is your dog known for not behaving well on the leash? If you’ve answered yes to these questions then this article is for you! Below are 8 dog walking tips to help you and your pup have a better time taking walks together!
Even if your dog isn’t difficult to walk, you may find yourself having a hard time sticking to a consistent walking schedule, and you’re not alone. According to the American Animal Hospital Association, “approximately 40% of dog owners don’t take their dogs for walks.” However, regular walks are crucial for your dog’s well-being, whatever his breed.
Walks tire your dog, so he can expend his energy and won’t feel the need to get into as much trouble at home. If your dog tends to be anxious, walking can help ease his anxiety as well. Getting outside and experiencing the world around him will also stimulate your dog’s mind, delaying canine cognitive dysfunction and keeping him from feeling bored at home (which can also curb any destructive habits). Finally, talking your dog out for regular walks will also strengthen the bond between you and help socialize your dog.
Dog Walking Tips From Fon Jon Pet Care
1. Good Shoes
It’s important for you to have a good pair of walking shoes for your feet. Since your dog’s behavior is sometimes unknown, having a sturdy pair of shoes will help your feet stay strong so that you can withstand whatever comes your way.
2. Front Clip Harness
A front clip harness will provide a lot of help when walking your dog. It will help keep your dog secure and, if he pulls while walking, will help you get rid of this habit. On other harnesses, your dog’s leash will be clipped on your dog’s back. However, on a front clip harness, your leash will be clipped on your dog’s chest area. This means that when he pulls, his core and shoulders will be pulled to the side, discouraging pulling. Keep in mind that a front clip harness is just a training tool that will help you out, but it may help make walks a lot easier for you and your dog.
3. Treats
If your dog is new to you or just a little puppy, make sure you’ve got plenty of treats. Having treats will help encourage your dog to behave the way you’d like him to on the leash. Treats can also be used as a potty-training tool. If your dog is a new puppy, using the treats to praise as they go potty will encourage them to learn where they should go.
4. Doggy Bags
Whenever you take your dog for a walk, make sure you have plenty of doggy bags with you. Picking up after your dog is a must for a variety of reasons. It helps reduce the possibility of illnesses or parasites spreading. Your dog may have something and you may not even know it. Also, we’ve all been that person who’s stepped in poo and been thoroughly annoyed. “If only they’d pick up the poo!” We’ve all been there. So make sure you have doggy bags and pick up after your dog for everyone’s sake!
5. Keep up the Communication!
Whether your pup is young or just needs leash training, make sure you are communicating with your dog throughout the walk. Whether it’s simple yes or no commands or teaching phrases, communicating with your dog is vital.
6. Enough Time
Give yourself and your dog enough time for a walk. As with children, you must be patient with your dog and yourself. It takes time to build habits and for your dog to learn how to walk on a leash. We recommend giving yourself at least half an hour each time you go for a walk. Once your dog learns how to walk, you can adjust accordingly.
7. Lead the Pack
When walking your dog, make sure to walk in front of him. This is vitally important so that he will learn to follow you. If you let your dog walk in front of you, he’ll think that he’s the leader. Walking in front of and leading him will let him know that you’re the leader and you’re the boss.
8. Let Him Sniff
Dogs are curious and their noses are very sensitive. Let your dog sniff around and explore his surroundings. This is a natural behavior for dogs. Letting your dog sniff while you are walking allows them to get to know the areas they are in. This also provides stimulation for your dog, which is important for his mental well-being.
Need Help With Dog Care? Choose Fon Jon Pet Care!
With these dog walking tips, we hope dog walking will become easier than ever for you and your dog, so you can bond and enjoy the outdoors together. But if you need more help with dog care, consider dog daycare or dog boarding at Fon Jon Pet Care!
At our facility, your dog will be supervised, well taken care of, and will get the exercise and socialization he needs while you’re away. Instead of leaving him on his own at home, leave him with a team of pet lovers whose job is to take care of your dog. Let us help you take the best care of your dog!
Fon Jon Pet Care has been serving the San Diego area for more than 70 years. We can help you with your dog training, dog daycare, and dog boarding needs. Call us today at 858-490-2117 or fill out our registration form.
