For any dog owner to master the dog walk, your dog needs to first get enough exercise. Different breeds have different lifestyles and needs. Even so, it is highly recommended that every dog takes a minimum of one walk a day. One can take their dog on walks every morning or late evening. Properly walking your dog is the key to a happy and healthy dog.
The tips for mastering your dog walk include:
1. Walk Infront of your Dog
Dogs are known to be pack animals. Walking in front of your dog makes your dog see you as the pack leader. Always make sure you are the leader and not the follower. Your dog should be either beside you or behind you during walks. If your dog is in front of you and he/she controls you, he/she perceives themselves to be the leader. This is problematic as your dog decides where to go and how to behave. Make a habit of being the first one out of the door and the first one in. This way your dog knows who the leader is.
2. Use a Short Dog Leash
A short leash automatically gives you better control. Keep the leash short enough to be around your arm’s distance but long enough for the comfort of the dog. To easily communicate, control, and correct your dog, attach the short leash to the top of the neck. The lower the leash is, the much stronger of a pull your dog gets. Alternatively, you can find and purchase the best harness to stop pulling. The best dog harness to stop pulling works to help the dog owner regain control of the dog walks. When correcting your dog with the leash, keep your dog’s safety in mind.
3. Give your Dogs Rewards During and After the Walk
Dogs become excited and energetic when they are rewarded with treats. It’s important to reward them when they maintain discipline on walks. One way of rewarding your dog is to let him sniff around and relieve themselves. Sniffing stimulates the dog’s brain with activity. Thereafter, decide when the reward time is over. This allows you to give your dog a little freedom while still being the leader of the pack. Ensure the reward time is brief as limiting reward time while you and your dog are learning pack roles, promotes discipline during the walks. Over time, you can add the reward time during the walks. Another reward can be healthy treats.
After the walk, you can reward your dog with a well-balanced meal. Doing this encourages the dog to look forward to his/her walks and learns to follow instructions. Also, it helps the dog to perceive the walk as work they have done and the food as their reward for the work.
Lastly, occasionally, you can reward your dog with good grooming after the walk. Also, when you decide to wash them as part of the reward, ensure to use the best dog shampoo for shedding as this is gentle on them. You do not have to often do this but only when you want.
4. Set Enough Time for Walks
Dogs need their walk for exercise not only physically but also emotionally and mentally. Mornings are more ideal to take your dog for walks. When dogs lack enough exercise, they start acting out in bad behavior. You should plan for 30-60 minutes walks every single day. After all, you get a good stretch too. Different breeds have different needs. Longer walks are required for more active dogs. Alternatively, you can choose to have more than one walk every day. Every so often, visit the vet to ensure you are fulfilling your dog’s specific needs to the fullest.
5. Continue Leading After the Walk
After getting home from the walk, enter your house first. Boost your dog’s patience by keeping them waiting for you as you offload your belongings. Thereafter, release the dog by putting away the leash and allow him/her to roam freely in the house.
