How to Make Walking Your Dog Pleasant Instead of a Chore

Some people don't take their dogs when they go for a walk, because the dog either always runs off or is not well trained to go on a leash. Maybe your dog wants to run to everyone you pass and lick them, or go play with every dog he or she sees. Here are some tips for taking walks with your dog, in a way that both of you can enjoy.

First of all, if you are walking in a public place you really do need to use a leash. I cannot reinforce this strongly enough. Having your dog is the law in many places. It is also important for the safety of your dog. All too often, dogs who are on the loose in public places get hit by cars, get into fights, or, sad to say, even get poisoned by angry neighbors. You are responsible for your dog, so its important to have him or her under control.

At the same time, don't drag your dog along while he or she is walking on the leash. This will be unpleasant to the dog, and may be why they refuse to move when put on a leash.

Also, socializing your dog so it knows how to act in public is very important. It helps to keep them friendly and trusting. If dogs are not introduced to strangers at a young age, they may become timid and snap at people later in life.

Take your dog out into busy places and invite people to pet him or her. Attending a public obedience class with other dogs in attendance is also a very good idea. Even if your dog is normally well-behaved, and a wonderful creature, you still need to have control over them so you can let them know when it is and is not OK for them to approach other people. Obedience class can be an amazing help in this area.

Your dog will also learn to walk much better on a leash, in obedience class. Obedience classes are very good for teaching your dog how to get along with all kinds of people and other dogs. They are well worth the time and money.

One of the keys is to take your dog for regular walks. If they get used to your routine, they will be easier to control. Saying that your dog "doesn't like a leash" is not a good reason for letting him or her out of it. You just have to get him or her used to the leash.

Put the leash on your dog while you take him or her for a walk, but play with him or her along the way. If you are the most fun thing on the trail, your dog will be less interested in other people he or she sees. Some things to take along on your walk would include a tug to play with, or a sleeve from an old sweatshirt (tied in a knot). If your dog begins to understand that there will be fun along the way, he or she or she will behave much better-and you can actually begin to enjoy walking your dog.