Do's and Don'ts for Walking Your Dog

For those of you who are proud owners of canine companions, you already have an in-depth understanding of the massive responsibility that having a dog is. Yes, of course, they are our cuddly partners-in-crime, our lovable protectors, and the collective man's best friend, but that doesn't mean that our pets don't have certain needs. The potty-training, sock-destroying, constantly-under-your-feet stage of dog ownership is something that few people miss after their pups have matured, but the most important training activity that any dog can undergo is the W-A-L-K. Walking your dog can make or break your relationship with the species. A quick search on YouTube will prove to non-believers that dog walking can be a perilous activity, albeit hilarious to those of us who can watch, knowing we don't make certain mistakes. That, however, bears the question, "Am I walking my dog wrong?" With this guide for do's and don'ts for walking your dog, you will surely be able to answer that question, and may even pick up a tip or two to improve your dog walking abilities tremendously.

Do use the proper equipment.

Long leash, short leash, retractable leash, walking harness, reflective harness, weighted harness... the list goes on and on. Using the proper equipment is essential to making sure you have full control over your furry friend as you stroll through the neighborhood. If you have a big, assertive pup who is as excitable as they are clumsy, you wouldn't want the handle of some paper-thin strand of polyurethane fly from your hands as your dog barrels toward a rabbit that hopped out onto the road, would you? There is definitely a best leash for different sized dogs, and utilizing the proper equipment is a sure-fired way to increase the quality of your walks. The addition of a harness for dogs gives you an extra element of safety, if you choose a reflective option, this can also give your dog a sense of purpose, naturally coercing them to behave better by giving them a sense of responsibility without any extra effort.

Do bring the essentials.

The days of being a teenager and simply picking up your dog and running from your screaming neighbor are over. It is always a good idea to have an inventory of poop bags (plural for a reason), treats, and even just a water bottle handy when out and about with your dog. There are a number of variables to consider in terms of heat, training opportunities, and dumping zones, and it is your responsibility to be ready for all of them. If nothing else, in the instance you are going on a short walk, remember to always pick up after your dog.

Do stay vocal.

Whether it is with your fluffy friend, other dog walkers, or that nice, old lady who lives at the corner of your street, being vocal is a phenomenal way to establish good walking etiquette. Being able to communicate with your dog and the other pedestrians around you ensures that you and your dog have a comfortable walking experience, whether you are keeping little children well away from your shy guy, or have that cute jogger stop to give your main chick a nice, long pat.

Do regularly walk your dog.

Unfortunately, life gets in the way of spending time with your dog. I have definitely read stories about people able to work remotely while traveling the country in a caravan with nothing but their dogs and other essentials, but it is just simply not in the cards for the rest of us. Going for regular walks every day twice a day will give you the opportunity to spend significant time with your dog, time we think they'll appreciate not being cooped up in the house. A little time off the couch could do you some good, too.

Do remember it's your walk.

This step is probably one of the more important ones for a significant reason: It allows you to train your dog. I cannot believe the amount of owners who let their dogs zigzag across the street, dragging their owners in this direction or that, just to spend five minutes sniffing the same spot. Dogs are pack animals, so they'll follow your lead if they believe you to be the dominant party. Head up, shoulders back, dog safely by your side, there is no understating the importance of remembering that it's your walk first.

Don't let them pull.

Jumping immediately off the previous point, letting your dog pull your leash is definitely something they should not get into the habit of doing. Every person can be sympathetic for a dog who is just trying to find the perfect spot to pee, but that doesn't mean your pup should be straining itself for air all the way around the block. You should aspire to be an owner who controls their dog. Plus, having this impulse to pull you may mean unpredictability in terms of walking speed or direction, causing your pet to jut out into the street at the most inopportune time. Definitely don't let your dog exhibit this kind of aggressive behavior.

Don't approach other dogs.

When strange dogs walk up on your dog, any number of things can happen. They can be merrily wagging their tails and sniffing each other's butts, performing a canine handshake or sorts, in one minute, and during the next, start snarling and snapping at each other, potentially injuring either of the dog owners, either of the dogs, or any combination of the four. This tip is a recommendation for you to walk to the other side of the street or change directions entirely if you see a dog approach you and your canine companion if you don't know them.

Don't ignore your pet's behavior.

Definitely do not ignore your pet's behavior. Think about it: Dogs have a keen sense of smell, impeccable hearing, and can see far greater distances than us. These sensory observations can let us know that our dogs know something we don't know. On top of that, canines are very emotionally aware creatures. They will stop for absolutely no reason, laying down right where they were once walking. It is important to recognize if it is too hot (on the asphalt and the air), too cold, or danger is afoot, making sure you have the opportunity to walk your dog again later. If they get away from your slack-wrist grasp because you were distracted, then you're going to need to know life hacks every dog owner needs to know if you want any hope of getting them back.

Don't get distracted.

I know, I know. It can be a little difficult to not want to take out your phone and document how adorable your furry friend is on Instagram, Snapchat, Facebook, and other forms of social media. Check that impulse at the door, because if you're not paying attention, there can be serious consequences for you and your dog. You should always be conscious to check for cars, people, other dogs, pesticide-treated lawns, ticks and other creepy-crawlies, and other dog walking hazards.

Don't panic.

This last step of the do's and don'ts for walking your dog is a critical element to any of things that may happen on your walk. Do not panic for any reason. If you become anxious, your dog will also become anxious, and maybe even frantic. Your dog will literally risk their life trying to protect you, whether that be a bear in a garbage can, an approaching dog, or that damn UPS driver! If you want to make sure you have a successful walk for both you and your dog, stay alert, be prepared, and keep calm in every situation.