Scores of dog owners walk their pets daily, however very few have ever given any thought to the right methods that can make this activity as enjoyable as possible. Often regarded as a chore, dog walking for many owners is considered a necessary evil to be performed as quickly as possible in order to proceed to more pressing issues. Sadly this not only shortchanges the dog, but also the owner. By making some simple preparations and using several basic approaches, pet owners can make their dog walking experience considerably more satisfying. Let's look at a few ways that should work for every dog owner.
Get An Understanding of Pet Behavior
Prior to taking the dog for a stroll, there are a number of behavioral issues with which you should be acquainted to ensure a good experience. Perhaps the most critical one is that of command, or resolving the question of Who's the Leader? For an owner to be able to effectively control a dog's behavior and allow their pet the best walking experience possible, they need to establish a leadership position. The best way to accomplish this is to teach a dog to walk at heel alongside or behind its' master by employing positive reinforcement, such as treats, to reward the desired conduct. Once this has been accomplished, your dog will be more at ease and act more acceptably.
Find a Good Dog Walking Route
Frequently dog owners just grab their dog, a tether and head out of the door on their walk without much thought, but doing just a bit of planning will help. First, it's best to consider the reason for the walk before launching down the street. Is it a brief restroom break, an exercise walk, or a training hike? Certainly you need to plan your route appropriately. When exercising, it's ideal to select a space where your dog is less likely to interfere with bikers or others that could be easily disrupted. Furthermore, if you plan on focusing on some dog training, it's wise to select a location that may be without diversion. Regardless, selecting a place that fits the purpose is preferred.
Preparing for Your Walk
Just how you prepare for your walk will set the tone for the entire experience, so it is essential to approach it in an orderly way. First, you should supply yourself with a 12 to 15 foot, non-retractable leash, along with treats if you intend to do any training. Before starting off, have your pet sit quietly by your side before attaching any leash. It should be positioned high up the neck to maximize control with minimum effort. Some dogs (such as a Whippet or Italian Greyhound) may require a harness to avoid the collar slipping right off its neck when pulled. Continuing to the door, have the dog sit calmly beside the door; once opened you'll want to lead the dog outside.
While Walking
Exiting the home, it will be important to monitor your dog's behavior to ensure that it continues to be acceptable. Walking by your side or slightly behind, your dog should feel at ease and the teather should be short and hang loosely. Occasionally your dog may get distracted or excited and start pulling or walking in front of you. Should this occur, attempt to correct it with a soft tug, however, if the behavior continues you should have the dog sit and wait until it is calm again. Lastly, walk confidently since your dog can sense emotional stress and will question your leadership. Though walking you dog needs some normal oversight, you'll find that both you and your dog will enjoy it more.
Sometimes regarded as an unpleasant chore, a walk can be much more enjoyable for both dog owners and their pets with some simple preparation. Having an understanding of dog behavior, finding the proper environment, preparing for the walk and then proper monitoring during the walk, both owners and pets will find their regular strolls much more enjoyable.
Get An Understanding of Pet Behavior
Prior to taking the dog for a stroll, there are a number of behavioral issues with which you should be acquainted to ensure a good experience. Perhaps the most critical one is that of command, or resolving the question of Who's the Leader? For an owner to be able to effectively control a dog's behavior and allow their pet the best walking experience possible, they need to establish a leadership position. The best way to accomplish this is to teach a dog to walk at heel alongside or behind its' master by employing positive reinforcement, such as treats, to reward the desired conduct. Once this has been accomplished, your dog will be more at ease and act more acceptably.
Find a Good Dog Walking Route
Frequently dog owners just grab their dog, a tether and head out of the door on their walk without much thought, but doing just a bit of planning will help. First, it's best to consider the reason for the walk before launching down the street. Is it a brief restroom break, an exercise walk, or a training hike? Certainly you need to plan your route appropriately. When exercising, it's ideal to select a space where your dog is less likely to interfere with bikers or others that could be easily disrupted. Furthermore, if you plan on focusing on some dog training, it's wise to select a location that may be without diversion. Regardless, selecting a place that fits the purpose is preferred.
Preparing for Your Walk
Just how you prepare for your walk will set the tone for the entire experience, so it is essential to approach it in an orderly way. First, you should supply yourself with a 12 to 15 foot, non-retractable leash, along with treats if you intend to do any training. Before starting off, have your pet sit quietly by your side before attaching any leash. It should be positioned high up the neck to maximize control with minimum effort. Some dogs (such as a Whippet or Italian Greyhound) may require a harness to avoid the collar slipping right off its neck when pulled. Continuing to the door, have the dog sit calmly beside the door; once opened you'll want to lead the dog outside.
While Walking
Exiting the home, it will be important to monitor your dog's behavior to ensure that it continues to be acceptable. Walking by your side or slightly behind, your dog should feel at ease and the teather should be short and hang loosely. Occasionally your dog may get distracted or excited and start pulling or walking in front of you. Should this occur, attempt to correct it with a soft tug, however, if the behavior continues you should have the dog sit and wait until it is calm again. Lastly, walk confidently since your dog can sense emotional stress and will question your leadership. Though walking you dog needs some normal oversight, you'll find that both you and your dog will enjoy it more.
Sometimes regarded as an unpleasant chore, a walk can be much more enjoyable for both dog owners and their pets with some simple preparation. Having an understanding of dog behavior, finding the proper environment, preparing for the walk and then proper monitoring during the walk, both owners and pets will find their regular strolls much more enjoyable.
About the Author:
Regina T. Roby is a passionate pet owner that has survived numerous canine emergencies with her inquisitive Lab Paco and hyper Yorkie Bob. As a result, she's found dog insurance indispensable in limiting big vet bills and is an avid proponent of pet insurance for every owner.