5 Things to Consider before Walking a Dog

It’s time to walk Fido, but what should you be concerned with before you start walking with your dog? Anytime you take a pet for a walk there are a few things you should consider. You want to be prepared and your pet protected long before you begin walking a dog.

Let’s dive into five ways you can be prepared and ready for dog walking!

Age

The age of your pet is important to note. If they’re a young puppy, they won’t be able to make it very far and unless they’re receiving special training the likelihood of them knowing how to walk appropriately will be slim. Word of caution here, have lots of patience.

If your pet is older and has health concerns, you’ll want to confirm with its vet that it is still safe for them to go for walks. If it is, you’ll want to take it slow and to keep the walk short so that you don’t hurt your elderly dog while out for your leisurely stroll.

Breed

As with age, the breed of your dog matters. If your dog has a short snout, like a Pug, they aren’t able to breathe as well as a Labrador Retriever.

As such, you’ll want to be mindful of the length of the walk and where you intend to take your dog for its stroll. Factors that can increase the risk and complicate their unique medical condition, Brachycephalic Airway Syndrome, include obesity, allergies, over-excitement, and excessive exercise.

The exercise may cause rapid breathing that unfortunately their obstructed airways can’t manage. These particular problems can worsen with the warm or humid weather.

Weather

In continuation, one should be mindful of the weather before taking a dog for a walk. Like mentioned in the previous paragraph, a short-nosed breed will struggle with exercise during warm or humid weather.

Additionally, if it is too hot or too cold, your pet’s paw can get damaged. Too hot, could burn their paws and too cold could cause frostbite.

A good rule of thumb for mindful weather is that if it’s too hot or cold for you, then it’s the same for them too.

Surroundings

Furthermore, taking into consideration the location and surroundings of where you plan to take your dog for a walk is essential. Especially if your dog gets excessively hyper around other pets and or has not received obedience training.

You will also want to confirm that the place you want to bring your pet is pet-friendly.  Verify the rules, if any, at the particular location, like a dog park.

Equipment

Last but not least, proper equipment for a walk is a must!

In short, you’ll want a collar and a leash. The type of collar will vary based on the breed of the dog and its obedience. As for the leash, do not walk your dog with a retractable leash. They’re dangerous, especially if your pet will pull or jump while for a walk. Never mind the fact that the cord could become tangled around you, a child or another pet in the heat of the moment.

Now that you know what you should be mindful of before you step outside to walk your dog, now it’s time to put them into action!

Share with us in the comments below: Where’s your favorite place to walk your pet?

Related Blog Posts: Why Dog Walking is Good for Your Dog | Why You Need Daily Dog Walking | 5 Reasons to Hire a Dog Walker for Your Dog |  Benefits of Daily Walking Your Dog  

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