14/06/2023
Things I won’t do with or to my dog.
I won’t yank the leash. When it comes to walking, I zero interest in playing tug of war. She pulls, then I pull, she pulls harder- where does it end?
I like going into a field or on a trail that allows her to have a little more freedom on a 15 foot leash. She, in return, walks nicely beside me when I need her to.
Did you know mental stimulation will tired your dog out more quickly in 15 mins than a 1 hr militant right by your side walk?
Dogs learn about the world by using their nose. If you don’t allow them to sniff, it’s like someone telling you to walk around with a blind fold on. Sure you could do it, but it’s unnatural.
Pick your battles. Just like with kids. Maybe your dog likes to eat everything in sight. So instead of always saying leave it, maybe muzzle train him. He will get to live out his natural dog behaviour and you won’t be saying leave it 30,0000 times a min 😉 If your dog has big feelings and barks at everyone and their dog, try walking at a time you won’t encounter a lot of foot traffic. If he must be right at your side at all times, use treats to teach him where he should be walking and to check in with you.
Have fun on your walks, but don’t play the tug of war with the leash game.
Photo of a hound/lab mix. The urge to sniff everything was real.