Only a special person is able to give a pet all the time, love and patience it needs. A lot of sense of responsibility is needed, especially when you start training him or teach him how to go for a walk. In addition, there are many other factors to consider, such as purchasing the right collar and leash, setting attainable expectations, and a reward system for correct behavior. It will take some time, but you will soon know what to do so that your dog can enjoy the walking experience in the best possible way.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: The Basics
Step 1. Put the collar and leash on your furry friend
There will be a time when the dog will understand that it is time for the walk from the simple fact that you are approaching the leash. Start training your pet in this way right away, using the collar from an early age. Put the collar on and say "let's go" with the leash in sight.
Step 2. Make the collar snug, but not too tight
You must avoid squeezing it too tightly around your four-legged friend's neck. If you can insert a finger or two between the collar and his neck, it means that it is placed correctly. However, you must avoid that it is large enough to slip over his ears, in case he tries to take it off.
Step 3. Choose the side you want the dog to walk
It is important to maintain consistent rules when training an animal to go for a walk. Defining a side of your body where the animal has to walk makes it understand its place in the activity. The puppy gets used to walking with you knowing what to expect. However, keep in mind that walking on a leash is not a natural situation for the dog and you must be aware that an adjustment period will be necessary.
Step 4. Keep the leash close to your body
The most important aspect of leash walking training is to constantly reiterate that you are in control and that it is not up to the dog to decide where to go. You are in charge and this must also be reflected in your mutual behavior when you go for a walk.
- Wrap the traditional leash around your hand until there is little space between you and the dog.
- Keep the leash close to your body, but make sure there is enough left for your furry friend to walk naturally.
- The dog must feel the resistance you put on the leash and understand that he cannot stand in front of you.
Step 5. Talk to him
The dog understands the tone of your voice. Don't show frustration, but encourage him by saying "good" or "well done" when you see that he is behaving correctly. Use a stern tone of voice when teaching him not to do the wrong things, such as jumping over people passing by or barking at other dogs.
Step 6. Reward him with special treats
Give him some tasty treats when you teach him to go for a walk, but especially when you want him to understand that he shouldn't pull on the leash. Reward him often and consistently.
Reserve a treat for training that he particularly loves. Many dogs especially love bits of hot dog, cheese, or jerky
Part 2 of 3: Purchase the Appropriate Equipment
Step 1. Talk to your veterinarian before purchasing dog walking equipment
Your doctor knows your pet well enough and will be able to advise you on the type of material best suited for him to walk. Take into account what your vet has told you when you go to purchase equipment based on the specific size and weight of your furry friend. Your vet can also give you other advice to avoid complications or problems in your neck due to the wrong collar.
Step 2. Purchase the right collar and leash for your faithful friend
There are countless collars and leashes on the market, but not all of them are suitable for your pet. For example, the traditional collar with buckle and the leash with hook are the most used with dogs that do not create particular problems during the walk. But, if the pet cooperates little, you can find many other products that help you stay in control.
- Choke collars help keep a dog alert that tends to get distracted easily.
- Double band collars are used for dogs who like to pull.
- The harnesses are suitable for specimens that have an elongated neck.
- There are also special purpose collars, such as vibrating and GPS tracking systems.
- The glow-in-the-dark collars are perfect for making you and your dog highly visible.
Step 3. Consider training your furry friend with a clicker
This device is considered to be a very safe and effective method of dog training. You can use it to reinforce good behavior and communicate to the dog clearly and concisely. The sound of the click, followed by a prize, lets him know he is doing the right thing. This technique is effective for teaching him to walk, but also for carrying out other tasks, such as barking only when appropriate, going to the needs in the indicated place and obeying other commands. Use the clicker, followed by a treat, like this:
- It starts when you put the leash on him.
- When he stops resisting the leash.
- When he walks behind or beside you.
- Repeat the process periodically throughout the walk.
- When, returning home, you take off the leash.
- Repeat every day.
Part 3 of 3: Making the Walk Comfortable
Step 1. Be careful when the weather is too hot for your dog to walk
You need to take the temperatures into account to determine the best time to take him out. Generally the best times are early in the morning or late in the evening. Avoid the midday belt, as the streets can be hot for the dog's paws. The best way to tell if the asphalt is too hot is to put your bare hand on the pavement. If you have to take it off after only five seconds, it is probably too hot for the animal.
Step 2. Bring plenty of water and food with you
In addition to the poop bags and the clicker, also bring a walking bowl and a bottle of water for your four-legged friend. It is important that you are always well hydrated, if you plan to go for a long walk or during the hottest times of the day. Especially during the summer months, it is even more important that you have plenty of water available. Here are some ideas for healthy snacks that are easy to take with you:
- Strawberries
- Seedless watermelon
- Slices of apple
- Blueberries
- Carrots
- Crushed ice during the hottest days
Step 3. Rest, if necessary, and get in the shade when possible
Don't overdo it when you walk your dog, especially if it's the first time he's wearing the collar and leash. He will probably do a lot of resistance and pull the leash a lot. Find a spot in the shade and rest a few minutes during the walk.
Advice
- Bring a spray bottle of cold water with you and spray it on the dog to dissuade him from barking at other people.
- Collect his droppings when you go for a walk.
- Talk to your four-legged friend and give him orders as you walk.
- Don't muzzle him if you can, as this may cause him to become more aggressive.
- Get your dog used to interacting with other peers from an early age.
