Taking your dog out for a walk is one of the best things you can do with them. It’s a bonding activity that brings you closer together while giving them an engaging activity that promotes physical exercise. However, certain dogs experience overeagerness and pull on their collar, or owners fail to account for things that can make the experience less pleasant for their pet.
Understanding how to make walks more comfortable for your dog can help you create pleasant, enjoyable experiences with them. Consider some of these easy adjustments to create a bonding experience that you can both look forward to.
Choose the Right Harness for Better Control
Traditional collars can put a lot of pressure on your dog’s neck and throat during walks. Getting a harness for your dog can redistribute pressure across their chest and shoulders to reduce strain and make them more comfortable. Learn the proper steps for getting your dog into a harness, and try to find one that’s comfortable and adjustable for their specific build.
Match Your Pace to Your Dog’s Natural Rhythm
Dogs experience the world from a different perspective than people do. While many of us aim for the walking experience to be a non-stop trek, your dog may want to stop to smell their surroundings. Rushing your dog through the walk can remove a lot of the enjoyment they may get from the experience and not offer the mental stimulation that makes it a more pleasant experience. It’s a good idea to stop frequently and let your dog investigate their surroundings, especially if something captures their attention.
Matching their pace means adjusting your walking speed. Older dogs or smaller breeds may need to move at a slower pace. It’s a good idea to watch for signs of fatigue or lagging and know that sometimes it’s okay to end a walk early and head home.
Create Positive Associations With Walking
Another way to make walks more comfortable for your dog is to establish a consistent routine. Dogs are creatures of habit, so if they know when a walk is going to happen, they feel more excited about it. Try to use an enthusiastic, upbeat vocal tone when preparing them for walks, and maybe bring along some small treats to reward good walking behavior.
Try to avoid walking during the hottest parts of the day, as hot asphalt can hurt or damage their paws. If you’re walking on a warmer day, try mixing up your path to go through grassier areas. Grass won’t be as rough on your pet, and new routes and experiences can excite and invigorate them on your journey.
