January 5 2015
Walking your
dog is great exercise for both of you, and can help keep the pounds off. It
will also help him mentally and physically and is beneficial
for helping resolve other behavior problems.
Many dog owners have issues or
they don't walk them at all,
because the dog misbehaves.
Here's some dos and don'ts so you and your dog can have a
leisurely stroll:
Do:
- When
getting ready to go on a walk, call the dog to you; do not go to the dog to put
his leash/collar on. If you're walking a puppy, make sure he gets familiar with the
leash before you start using it to take him on a walk. Once the dog
approaches you, have him sit quietly before putting on his leash or collar.
Make sure you leave the door first and return through the door first. Remember,
the Leader always leads!
- Before
you set off on your walk with your dog, you need have him focus on you, not
everything else around you. Simply hold the leash by the handle. There should
be six feet of loose leash between you and your dog. Start walking. As soon as
he gets to you and begins to pull, give a slight tug on the leash and direct
him back to you by changing direction.
- Along
the walk, guide your dog heel. Your dog should walk
along side of you or in back of you. Don't let the dog decide when to heel because
once again he would be establishing himself as the leader of the pack.
- Walk
with your shoulders high and your head back, establishing yourself as a
confident leader.
- Walk
your dog daily or make sure he gets some type of exercise. An un-exercised dog can become hyper
and exhibit destructive behaviors (chewing, digging, etc.) from being bored. Remember
that dogs are walkers/travelers by instinct.
- Watch out for poisonous plants or
animals and avoid anything that could be problematic for your dog."
- Make
sure your dog has the proper identification in case he runs away.
Don't:
- Let
the dog walk in front of you. It gives him the impression that he is in charge and
is leading you.
- Let
him drag you on a leash or walk you versus you walk him.
- Let
your dog mark all over the place just for the sake of marking. Cue in to
whether or not he needs to relieve himself.
- Use
a retractable leash. They make it harder for you to control the dog,
and
can be dangerous.
- Let
your dog off his leash unless you're in an off-leash dog area. Even then, you
need to be careful because other dogs can [9] be unpredictable.
- Go
to the same place every day ... mix it up! Your dog will like the variety and the
new sights and smells.
What To
Bring On a WalkDon't leave your house empty handed! Be
respectful of your neighbors and their property. Always bring:
- Water
for your dog, particularly if it's warm outside or you are jogging.
- Poop
bags for when your dog relieves himself (recycle your grocery bags).
Still having
problems getting your dog to behave on a walk properly? Call your Bark Busters
dog behaviorist or check out our WaggWalker dog
harness!