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How to Walk Your Dog
If you just received a new dog, one of the first things you'll have to
learn with your new dog is how to go for a walk. Before you even
start you'll need to buy the proper dog supplies, collar
as well as the leash. You'll then need to train the dog to be
patient and to not pull you as you walk or it won't be a pleasurable
experience for either.
When you buy a leash for your dog you'll
first want to consider if you want to use a dog collar or a body
harness to restrain your dog. Neck collars have been criticized for
being too harsh on a dog’s neck if you need to pull the dog back
quickly. A body harness instead spreads the pressure across the dog’s
shoulders and chest making it more comfortable than a neck collar.
A dog harness can be
more difficult to put on, though, since you generally have to loop it
trough at least two of the dog's legs which can be difficult if your dog
is jumping around, excited about the prospect of a walk.
Besides the collar or harness, you'll need to buy the dog leash,
sometimes called a lead. When buying dog leashes it's important
to buy the proper thickness leash. With a leash too thick and heavy
for a small dog, it will be uncomfortable and maybe even painful.
Using a leash that is too thin for your large dog can be hazardous in
case the leash should break. If you need to restrain your dog, the
last thing you'll want to happen is to have your leash break.
Once you have the proper equipment for your dog it's time for the
actual walk. When you take your dogs for walks
you shouldn't get them really excited immediately before the walk or they
may be more apt to pull and yank on the leash as you walk them.
Before you open the door to go outside it may even be helpful to tell
your dog to sit first to reinforce to the dog that you're in
control. If your dog does decide to pull on the leash, try giving
quick tugs instead of just pulling back on the leash.
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