Walking a dog is a fun thing to do and it seems like an activity that anyone that can hold a leash can do without having to take lessons in dog walking. However, as strange as they may sound, there are some mistakes people make when walking their dogs. They are mistakes that anybody can make regardless of their age, size, height, and location.
Here are six common dog walking mistakes you are making and how to avoid them:
Disregarding Safety Hazards
When you walk your dog, it is very important to be mindful of anything that could harm you and anything that could harm your dog. Some of the things that can be dangerous to you and your dog as you go for a walk are cars passing, broken bottles, wet or slippery floors, sharp or pointed objects, spilled chemicals, water bodies, and electrical connections. To avoid any form of harm, be mindful of everything around you and your dog; move your dog away from anything that could harm it; and put booties on their paws.
Using The Wrong Leash
One of the reasons why people like to use a retractable leash or a long leash while walking their dogs is to give their dogs a lot of freedom to walk around them and to make sure they do not bump into their dogs. This seem like a good idea, but it is not advisable. The reason is that it is difficult to control a dog using a retractable or long leash. When you do not have a good control of your dog while walking them, they can run off when they see an animal they would like to chase and run into danger.
Approaching Unknown Dogs
Some dogs can get hostile with each other, especially when they are meeting each other for the first time. Also, some dogs can attack you if they do not know you. Therefore, it is advisable to be wary of unknown dogs when you approach them without your dog and when you approach them with your dog. Ensure the situation is safe before you let yourself or your dog get close to another dog.
Stopping For Stubborn Dogs
Some dogs, especially smaller dogs are generally more stubborn than bigger dogs when you take them for a walk. Stubborn dogs move haphazardly and frequently stop while you walk them, making it difficult for you to control them and difficult for you to enjoy walking your pet. Instead of stopping intermittently, take a handful of kibble with you and use it to motivate them to continue walking.
Ignoring Pet Behavior
It is never a good idea to ignore any changes in the behavior of your pet. Changes in the behavior of dogs could be a warning sign that they are sick, injured, or around danger.
Not Rewarding Your Dog
Rewarding your dog with treats during and after a walk will make your dog look forward to the next time you both will go out for a walk.
Comment : 0