3 Tips for Better Dog Walks

We all know taking your dog for a walk is good for their physical health. Did you know it’s also great for their mental stimulation? Your dog can learn a lot by sniffing new places and being introduced to new obstacles. Walks can also help reduce their stress!

Since walking can be so important for your pup, when it is difficult, it can be very frustrating. Maybe your dog is reactive. They may be super excited and love to pull. Or your pup could be anxious and get scared easily. Check out some tips below to help make your walks more fun!

Identify Triggers

Your dog may get excited by other animals or humans on your trail. Maybe they are spooked by sirens or loud noises. Or maybe they want to play every time they see another pup.

It is important to figure out what is triggering your dog, so you can plan to avoid or address the issue. When another dog is approaching, you can practice your “sit” command and reward your dog for their good behavior - using this process as a distraction. If loud noises scare your pup, you can make note of the loudest and most active times in your area and plan your walks accordingly. If you set your dog up for success, it can make your walk more enjoyable for both of you.

Use a More Secure Leash or Harness

Finding a reliable leash or harness not only provides better control, but can also make your dog feel safer and more comfortable. Not every solution works the same. Every dog has a different shape and temperament, so it can take a few tries to find the perfect fit.

ThunderLeash applies gentle, safe pressure around your dog's chest, which encourages them to stop pulling.  It clips onto your dog's collar like a standard leash, but can wrap around their chest to create more of a harness pressure when needed.

Try a Calming Collar

Collars that mimic a mother dog’s calming pheromones can help your dog feel more comfortable in stressful situations. The collar allows those pheromones to move with the dog, rather than a diffuser or spray that stays with the room or object.

The ThunderEase Calming Collar is easy to put on and use, and lasts up to four weeks.

The most important tip is PATIENCE. Be patient with your dog and use a positive feedback system with their training. Remember, learning and adjustments take time for both you and your pup. Just keep swimming ... I mean walking.