Walking your dog is a good way for the two of you to bond and get some exercise. Also it’s one of the best ways to minimize and even prevent the violent outbursts that your dog usually restores to when it’s bored or when left alone. Though despite how often you do it chances are you feel that you’re doing something wrong.
It can be that you feel your dog doesn’t respect you as much or may even refuse to walk with you at times.
Most likely, this is a behavioral or authority problem as your dog may NOT recognize you as the leader of the pack.
These 6 tips below will help you establish your authority and make walking your dog less of a drag.
1. Let your dog run.
Some dogs don’t just want to walk they want to run! And instead of pulling on the leash to try and force them to walk it’s best to let them drain all that energy out by letting them do as they please. Do try to keep u though, so your dog won’t see you as someone who’s inferior.
Once your dog is tired you can start addressing problems with its behavior, which will be easier since it no longer has as much energy from the run.
2. Use a shorter leash.
A shorter leash allows you to have more control while at the same time it forces you to walk beside or in front of your dog. The latter is very important for reasons we’ll discuss later on.
Often shorter leashes are attached to the top of the neck just below the ears, which can also be useful since it makes it easier for you to communicate guide and correct your dog.
Pack Leader Collars are also quite useful if you feel that you need additional help. Though it’s best to consult your vet first to make sure that the leash or collar is safe to use for your dog.
3. Establish control during and after walking.
Always make it a point to walk in front of your dog so that it sees you as the pack leader. Also establish control and be the one to direct where the two of you are going to further make a point.
Other ways to reinforce this is by making sure that you’re the first to walk in and out of the door and having your dog sit and wait while you put away all of your stuff once you get home.
4. Reward your dog during the walk.
Apart from the usual doggy treats and water you should let your dog feel comfortable by letting it sniff around.
Just remember that reward time should always be less than the time spent walking.
5. Take your time when walking.
Dogs are diurnal like humans so it’s best to walk with them in the morning.
As for the ideal time thirty minutes to one hour is usually enough. Though each dog is different so be sure to consult your vet to check if you’re spending too much or too little time walking your dog.
6. Always reward your dog after the walk.
Giving your dog a meal after the walk will allow you to communicate to it that it has to work to get food and water.
Follow these 6 tips and you’ll find your dog’s behavior as well as how it respects you as an authoritative figure changing for the better in no time!