With Dog In Tow

Dogs need exercise. Some breeds and ages require more than others do. It is a simple fact of life for any responsible dog owner. While it may seem a simple thing to do – and it is once you have got the hang of it, have fallen into a well-trained (by your do) routine and are or have been a dog’s best friend for ever, you do need to look at certain factors. These can make dog walking a pleasure rather than a chore.

Age, Breed and Condition

Before you get your dog, puppy or senior ready for a walk, stop and consider what is best for your dog. You should look at a variety of factors that are part of the walk experience.

· The age of your dog – puppies and seniors require less long stretches of walk

· Unwell canines need to be treated with care when taking them for walks

· Obese or “pleasantly plump dogs may not be able to “go the distance” for their age or breed

· Breed. Some dogs are made for walking. They are high energy and demanding. Jack Russell Terriers spring to mind – and, yes, the pun is intentional. Others, such as bulldogs, may not need as much, particularly on days with higher temperatures.

Talk to your vet or dog breeder if you have any doubts.

Equipment

It does not matter where you are planning to take your dog for a walk. It could be once-around-the-block or for a long hike through the mountains. You still need to consider certain items of equipment as essential. These include:

· A good collar and leash set. Avoid the restrictive chokers and related types of collars, especially on small breeds and those prone to windpipe and throat damage. Stop and think what it would feel like to have someone yanking on your throat all the time. If the dog is a puller, talk to a trainer, enrol in lessons or opt for alternative means of control – and no I certainly don’t mean anything electric or pronged.

· Think about a harness or a haltie/gentle leader for walking.

· Make sure your dog has his or her ID tags firmly attached

· Choose a good leash. Be careful with the extendable ones and the cheap makes. The material may hold but the clasp may snap, come loose or cease to function at entirely the wrong time.

· For longer walks and those made in warm weather, bring a dish, margarine container or anything else to hold the water your dog requires. Some dogs drink easily out of a squirt water bottle.

· A few snacks to distract and reward are never amiss

· A toy if your dog absolutely has it, can share and/or it does not run afoul of the other dogs in the area

· Do bring your cell phone, Blackberry or whatever when you walk. It is ONLY for emergencies. Do NOT stay on it or listen to music while you are spending quality time with your dog.

Practicalities

Once you have the basic equipment in hand and know how much exercise your dog requires, consider the aim. Where do you plan to walk? Fortunately, there are options. This makes it more fun for you as well as your dog. You do not need to walk the same trail, path, park, etc. every single day. You can vary, even if it is only on weekends. Just be sure you know the rules of the area. These include:

· To leash or not to leash

· Cleaning up

· Wildlife

· Do understand written and unwritten park etiquette

· Where you can and cannot walk your dog

This requires a little bit of research. You can go on net. There is a lot of information on line about different parks and areas you can explore. Phone the local government and see about shared parks, doggy parks and other dog-friendly areas. Often the best source of different areas as well as information on just how good they are, are other dog owners. Don’t be afraid to ask them their opinion – after you have complimented them on how cute, regal, intelligent, well-behaved, etc. their dog is.

Conclusion

Walking the dog is and should always be enjoyable for you and your best friend. Try to make it a fun experience. A well-walked dog is one too content (and maybe too tired) to get into mischief. Abandon the electronic gadgets and enjoy nature with your dog and conversation with other dog owners. It is healthy for both you and your pet. Play or plan it right and it is something the two of you will look forward to every single day.