5 Tips For Dog Walking

We all know that we should exercise our dogs regularly. However, sometimes our dog is so out of control that we sometimes don't bother because we don't want the embarrassment of having to go through tantrums in front of the neighbours. If this sounds like your daily routine when taking your dog for a walk then you need to read these 5 tips for dog walking.

Use a Short Leash

A short leash gives you more control over your dog. Attach the leash to the top of the neck and ensure that it is secure and not too tight or too loose. This heightened control can help you to easily guide and correct him when he is trying to control you. You need to be in control of him at all times, not the other way around.

Walk in Front

As stated above, you need to be in control of the dog. If the dog is pulling you on the walk, it is controlling you. Instead, make sure that you hold the dog's leash close to your body (use 2 hands if need be) and that you're always walking ahead of the dog. This will show dominance and show him that he doesn't have control over you and that you are, in fact, the pack leader.

Rewards

Dogs have a really strong sense of smell and they will want to sniff nearly everything that they walk past. If the dog has been well behaved up until this point in time, you can loosen the leash slightly to give him more freedom to sniff around and do what dogs do. However, when you decide that this reward is over, you should stop the dog and continue with your walk, maintaining your position in front.

Arriving Home

The walk doesn't end when you get home, instead you need to remove the leash, remove your shoes and enter the house. Here you still need to be in control of the situation and you need to have the dog wait patiently when you are preparing to enter your home. If he can't wait patiently, don't remove the leash. Hold the leash close to you until the dog calms down and you can both enter your home when you decide it is the right time.

More Rewards

If you dog goes through all these steps without a problem, it is time to reward it again. Allow it to drink water and eat something. By doing this, the dog will feel that he as earned his right to eat and drink and will help him to remember the best way to behave the next time you go out for a walk.

If you're having problems it can be stressful time for both you and your pet. If you follow these simple steps it will help the both of you overcome issues you might have. If you are having persistent problems with your dog it might benefit both of you to seek professional help.

If you're looking for a professional to help you resolve any issues you might be having with your dog, you should definitely consider a dog trainer.