Do You Walk Your Dog or Does Your Dog Walk You?

The importance of daily dog walks cannot be truly understood until one sees it first hand. From high energy breeds like Jack Russells and Boxers to lower maintenance dogs like Great Danes and Mastiffs, a daily dog walk is natures Puppy Prozac.

Simply walking the dog each day is not enough to ensure discpline throughout all other activities however. The most effective training tool available is a dog that is walked properly by their leader. Read on to find out how and why.


According to a 2006 Hartz poll about two thirds of dog owners exercise with their dogs daily. You have seen some of the two thirds, walking straight armed down your street while Fido leads proudly, darting from one side of the sidewalk to the other. This type of people, not puppy walking is reinforcing negative behavior and dominance in the pet leading. Dogs are migratory animals in need of daily exercise, but they are also pack animals who appreciate a calm leader.

First choose a collar and leash that works best for your animal. Martingale collars are known as the humane choke collar for the dog who pulls. Choose a leash length that will keep the dog right next to you. A 3 foot long leash should do it. Second choose a time frame that works best to keep the leader calm and relaxed. Depending on the breed and daily schedule, 30 minutes to 1 hour should be enough time. Crated animals may need more exercise than dogs left to roam in a large yard while Mom and Dad are away, for example.

Now you are ready to walk. If you are physically able start the exercise off with a jog to get out the initial excitment the pet may have. Again keep the dog right next to you at all times by giving a quick pull then release motion. A tight collar for the duration of the walk due to excess pulling can cause the animal to chafe or even worse, choke. If your dog pulls excessively walk him until tired, then discipline with the quick pull then release motion and reward with a treat of their choice. The pulling will get better with practice and with an exercise routine implemented.

By adhering to the above every day, you will enjoy your place as leader of your pack. PS. A few pounds will drop off as well!

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