How would you feel if you had to stay the whole day indoors and didn’t have any chance to breathe in the fresh air? You would be distressed, wouldn’t you? Similarly, it gets pretty stressful for dogs to stay within four walls the entire day! They yearn to move out and feel the fresh hair. This is why it is a good idea to take your beloved pet out for a walk, at least once a day.
Regular walking would keep your dog both physically and mentally healthy and active. It is also a great exercise to keep their weight in check. The fear of a possible mishap or accident and the need to rush it to a vet clinic shouldn’t hinder you from going for a walk with your pet because by being cautious, your dog will always be on the safe side.
Tips for Walking Your Dog
Here’re some important dog walking tips every dog owner must know.
Train Your Dog
Going out on a walk requires your dog to behave in a specific manner. As such, you must train your dog to behave nicely when it makes a transition from indoors to outdoors. A quick training class or following the guidelines of a professional instructor would make this a seamless process.
Stay Prepared for all Situations
Taking your dog outside for the first time will expose your furry friend to a different situation altogether. The change of environment may make it uncomfortable for the pet, leading to an unexpected outburst of reaction. It is a good idea to be prepared for all kinds of emotional outbursts and behavioural changes. Be sure to keep all your senses alert to tackle any unforeseen situation.
In case of an accident or a misadventure, immediately rush the dog to a Veterinary Clinic in New Hamburg, as it’s the best vet clinic in the area.
Keep the Pet Hydrated
If the weather is hot outside, you need to ensure your pet doesn’t get dehydrated. Excessive panting can make the animal thirsty and restless. For that matter, carry water along, and offer it whenever you feel your dog is thirsty.
Take Safety Precautions
The benefits of dog walking are indisputable, but it is crucial to keep even the worst-case scenario in mind before going out for the walk. There is a chance of your pet getting excited, pulling the leash and running away from you. In such a case, you may lose your beloved pet. To be on the safe side, be sure to tag or microchip your pet with the most up-to-date information. If that’s not immediately possible, then at least the dog should have an identity card to make it traceable in case of a mishap!
Let Your Pet Sniff
One of the activities that dogs enjoy is to sniff everything, literally. You need to give them an appropriate amount of chance to let them sniff varied environmental elements. This will help them feel good! Rather than walking in a hurry, take smaller steps so your pet gets enough time to sniff the surroundings and have some fun time.
Use a Longer Leash
A longer leash will let your dog move on the path quickly. It also helps the animal stretch its legs enough when going after the attractive elements in the surroundings (albeit at a safe distance). A short leash means your pet will not feel sufficiently liberated and may present aggressive behaviour.
Give Your Dog the Best Walk!
Travelling the same path every day would make the activity a snooze fest for your pet. On the other hand, treading in various ways would keep the excitement intact, and the dog would always be thrilled to go out with you.
If you are disinterested in the walk and go for it as a duty, you might be ruining your dog’s walk. Your pet is ecstatic to go out, and you must also showcase genuine interest while walking with your dog.