Dogs are social animals, which means that it is natural for them to form a pack. When a pack is formed, a pack leader is required. There will be an alpha leader among the dogs, which is required for the group to function.
When a dog lives in a family, he looks for an alpha to guide him, if she doesn’t show up, the dog will try to be the pack leader. This is followed by behavioral problems that prevent dogs and their owners from living together comfortably.
When walking your dog, it’s important to set yourself up as the leader. Your dog will behave properly, there will be less pulling on the leash, and overall it will be a pleasant experience for you and your canine friend.
Here are 10 simple dog walking tips you can use the next time you take your dog for a walk!
1. Walk In Front Of Your Dog
When you walk in front of your dog, he sees you as the pack leader. That is why it is important that you leave the house first and enter it first when you return from the walk. When walking, your dog should walk behind or near you.
If your dog is the leader, constantly sniffing, excited, etc. means he is alpha while walking. For a dog, this condition is exhausting and he cannot be calm. So you must be a leader – let your dog walk behind or near.
2. Use A Short Leash
A shorter leash allows more control. When the leash is shorter, it is easier to communicate with, guide, and correct your dog. Always keep your dog in the safety of your dog when correcting. The leash should be relaxed. It is not necessary, nor good, for you and your dog to “strain” all the time. Instead, relax and be a calm leader.
3. Set The Collar High
The collar should be as large as possible because then it is not necessary to invest much energy in pulling your dog and it gives you better control. The body belt is not recommended for walking. The belts are designed to haul loads, sleds, etc. They are placed around the strongest points of your dog’s body, making it difficult to control your dog. Instead, place your usual collar high.
4. Put On His Collar When He Is Calm
Invite your dog to come to you, not your dog to call you. After you tell him to sit down, wait until he calms down, then put on his collar and leash.
5. Allow Plenty Of Time For Walk
The ideal time for a walk is in the morning. Take half an hour to one hour each day. Depending on the breed, your dog may need more or less time. Consult a veterinarian about the length of the walk, and see how your dog responds to different walks.
6. Reward Your Dog While Walking
Another handy dog walking tip is to use treats. After your dog has been obedient and learned how to behave, reward them with doggy treats. It’s important to use positive reinforcement on your dog with treats after they behave well. For instance, ignoring a barking dog, or walking without pulling on the leash.
7. Don’t Let Your Dog Misbehave
If you know that your dog will bark at another dog, cat, or person in some situation, ban it in a timely manner. It is necessary to gently pull your dog before disobedience occurs. Keep walking straight.
If a light pull is not enough, lightly touch your dog with his foot. Never hit them. In situations like this, it is important to react before your dog reacts, because once he starts barking it will be difficult to calm him down. Then his focus will be on what he’s barking at, not your commands and movements.
8. Get Your Dog to Sit
Try to get your dog to sit down next to you every time you come to a stop. The more you do this, the more your dog will know to sit every time you stop at traffic lights or a street corner. You can use dog treats in this situation, but also give them lots of fuss and attention if it’s something they’re still learning.
9. Be The Leader Even After The Walk
When you get home, don’t stop leading. Have your dog wait patiently until you remove his collar and take off your shoes.
10. Reward Your Dog After the Walk
Similar to tip #6, but give your dog lots of fuss, love, food, and attention as soon as you get home after the walk. But only if they have behaved well.
Final Thoughts
After following these 10 dog walking tips, you will find your dog behaves better, and overall it will be a nice bonding experience for you and your dog. If your dog is not used to you being the pack leader, then it will take dedication and time to make that transition. So have patience, and eventually, you will build up a wonderful relationship with your friend.
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