When it comes to exercising and keeping your dog happy and healthy, it can be hard to know what to do. Dogs need to have both physical and emotional exercise daily, but it can be difficult to make time for both of these things. Fortunately, dog walking is an easy way to fulfill the physical requirement every day! But there are some things you should know before you get started with dog walking. Here are 10 tips for how to take your dog on a walk.
1. Use a Front Clip Harness if Your Pup Pulls on Leash
If you struggle with a dog that pulls the leash constantly or jumps up on people while they’re walking, attach a front clip harness. This harness will fit around the front portion of your dog’s body and can discourage this behavior. In addition, if you have a larger dog that tends to pull on the leash, they can oftentimes pull you over while walking, which can be dangerous. The front clip saddle will prevent your dog from pulling you around when they are on the leash.
2. Make Sure Your Dog Always Has Fresh Water Available
Many dogs don’t drink enough water, which can be dangerous. If you’re going to walk your dog outside in the heat, it’s very important that they have access to fresh water during the entire walk. Dogs can quickly become dehydrated if they’re not drinking enough water, which can cause all sorts of issues for them if it isn’t rectified immediately. So make sure to carry a water bottle and give your dog water now and then along their walk.
3. Let Your Pup Sniff Around for Mental Stimulation
If you’re in an area away from people, give your dog the chance to explore. Dogs need both physical and mental exercise, so allow your dog to sniff around for a few minutes. This will help your dog’s mental health, which is just as important as their physical health.
4, Don’t Use a Retractable Leash For Dog Walks
Retractable leashes can be very useful while you’re walking your dog. However, they are not a reliable form of control for larger dogs and can cause injury to them if they’re pulled on. Also, pulling on a retractable leash can also cause injury to you as well. So instead of using a retractable leash for walks, use an extendable leash if you need to walk your dog some distance from home.
5. Always Pick Up Your Pups Poop
It can be easy to let your dog’s poop go when you’re walking them, but this is not the right thing to do. Not only is it unhealthy for your dog, but it is also unhealthy for other animals and people in the area. When you pick up the poop, you eliminate these risks and ensure that others are healthy and happy.
6. Be Sure Your Dog is Wearing Proper Identification
Before you leave your dog outside to walk, be sure to purchase a leash tag with your address and phone number on the tag, even if it’s not currently needed. This will ensure that you’re contacted if your dog gets lost. Not only will this help you recover your dog, but it will also ensure the dog’s safety.
7. Always Walk Away from Traffic
It’s very dangerous if your dog is walking next to the road and they’re hit by a car, so always make sure that you walk away from the road and cars as you’re taking your dog for a walk. This will help ensure that your dog’s safety and health are protected at all times.
8. Watch Out For Hot Pavement in the Summer
If you’re taking your dog out in the summer, it’s important that you’re aware of the hot pavement. This could cause some serious injury to your dog if they’re walked on a roadway that is too hot. To prevent this, walk your dog during the early morning or later in the evening when it’s cooler out.
9. Keep Your Dogs Motivated And Focused By Bringing Along Treats
If your dog tends to look around, you can get their attention back by bringing along some treats. These treats will allow you to get your dog’s attention and keep them focused on you. In addition, you will also be able to use these treats as a reward so your dog can understand that they’re doing an excellent job while they’re walking.
10. Ask Before Approaching Other Dogs.
Some dogs can get into a state of mind that they are just playing. However, if another dog is around, you will have to make sure that you have asked for permission before approaching that dog before your dog does. It’s important to be aware of what other dogs are doing so that you don’t accidentally scare them or distract them from their own behavior.
These are some of the best tips for how to walk your dog! If you are a dog walker or a dog owner who wants to walk your dog, these tips will help you do it safely and effectively.