The Do’s & Don’ts of Dog Walking
Walking your dog is a great way to get exercise, fresh air and socialise. It is also a great way to bond with your dog and spend quality time together.
DO:
- Make sure your dog is trained to walk on a lead and come when called.
- Make sure your dog is well socialised and won’t fight with other dogs
- Make sure you carry water for your dog (and you) to drink
- Make sure you carry poop bags so you can pick up after your dog
- Make sure your dog’s collar fits correctly (you should only be able to get two fingers between the collar and their neck) or use a harness
- Make sure they are up to date with tick and flea control if walking in the veld.
- Have treats as a reward with you if you plan to let them run off lead.
DON’T:
- Walk your dog in the heat of the day
- Have your dog off lead unless you know it is safe dog friendly place. Dogs should always be on lead by roads.
- Force your dog to walk further than they are comfortable to. Old dogs and dogs unused to walking should be observed for signs of fatigue.
- Run or walk long distances with puppies as excessive exercise can be damaging to their bones and joints that are still being formed.
- Feed your dog a large meal just before walking