How to Walk a Dog

Having a dog is a huge responsibility, and one of the many responsibilities is taking your dog on a walk. This article will explain the basics of dog walking, and what you need to use to do so.

EditSteps

1

A dog leash.

Get a dog leash and collar. You can get them at your nearest pet shop, or you can order them online. If you get them at a pet shop, you can see the material of the collar and test the fit. Make sure that the collar fits the dog - you should be able to slip your fingers between the collar and the dog's neck. Most employees at a pet store know what they are talking about, but some do not. For the safety of dog, you want to make sure the collar fits perfectly. The average leash will be 6 feet (the industry standard); this length should be fine for most dogs and their owners. If you are purchasing a retractable leash, make sure that your dog is obedient enough to walk on a standard leash. If your dog has a tendency to pull, try purchasing a harness. A harness allows the dog's pulling weight to be distributed evenly across his/her chest and shoulders. It is debatable though, because this will help them pull, which they shouldn't do unless you want them to pull you on a skateboard or sled. If the dog needs to do some business, let it go. Don't pull the dog away. It bothers them. Do not purchase a choke collar or one with metal prongs. You could seriously hurt your dog.
2
Attach the collar to your dog's neck, then put the leash on the collar's D-ring. If you have a standard leash, make sure you hold it correctly. Place your hand through the hole as if it were a bracelet, tie it around your hand, and grip the leash.
- Be sure to remove any electrical collars (like invisible fence) before walking as not doing so may shock your dog.
3
Show compassion, but don't come off as "weak". Be confident, but don't be mean. You should lead your dog at all times and make him or her heel; this will prevent behavioral problems.
4
Talk to your dog. Praise your dog for being good, but tell him "no" if he whines or tries to pull.
5
Take your dog out to a fun place. A park, a lake, a pet store, etc.
6
Clean up after your dog if you are not on your property. In some cities, it is an offense not to pick up your dog's mess. You can buy disposal bags at a pet store or use grocery bags.
7
If you will be walking for extended periods of time, don't forget to bring water. Also wear some decent walking shoes or trainers.
8
If none of this works you should get a gentle leader harness. Try to stay away from purchasing a muzzle for a dog. They tend not to like them very much.

EditVideo

This is how to teach your dog to stop tugging and to stay with you.

EditTips

Don't walk your dog too much. If the dog gets too tired, take a break or go back home. This applies to all dogs. Dogs will show you when they are tired. The main sign is that they will walk slower and have their tongue out. They also do this when they are hot.
Walk with an even pace - not too slow or too fast.
When you take your dog on a walk, allow time for sniffing and exploring.
Socialize your dog to new sounds, smells, and people.
If walking at night, consider getting a glow leash(Available at most retail stores).
Have fun. Walking is one of the joys of having a dog - you have some relaxation time and your dog can socialize.
Carry more than one doggie bag, you'll never know when he'll have to go!
Always keep your dog on the inside, not towards the road.
Be nice, but don't let your dog be the boss. You're the one in charge!
Use a harness, if your dog pulls a lot, a leash could cause the dog to choke.

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EditWarnings

Don't pull your dog with your leash - he or she could receive damage to his esophagus.
If other dogs (not on a leash) or cats are near where you and your dog are, do not pay attention to them. If he whines or tries to run at them, tell him "no". This is not being mean, this is letting him know that its an undesirable behavior.
If your dog begins to show pain, or walks strangely, stop the walk and examine your dog for any thorns, sticks, or scrapes. Try your best to relieve the pain. If you cannot relieve the pain yourself, end your walk there, carry your dog if you can, and go back home. Then call your veterinarian.
Signs that your dog may be about to yank away are: looking at something, acting distracted but alert, raised ears, raised tail, some pulling, stopping and looking, or acting excited or scared. You should remain calm, talk to your dog, try to distract it, and be ready to pull back. Always reward it if it doesn't yanks if it sees something.
Children should be supervised by an adult.
Don't let your dog off the leash unless absolutely necessary. It could be hit by a car or run away.
This advice is a start, but there is no substitute for a good dog-training class.
Always be alert when walking; you never know what could happen. Make sure the collar, leash, and harness are not tight. This may suffocate your dog.