Sometimes walking a dog can be a bit more than the simple, relaxing stroll that you may have envisioned. From tugging you in every direction, or stopping every two seconds to go.

Let’s take a peek at some of the most common issues that may occur while walking with your pup, and what can be done to resolve them.

Stopping to pee every 5 feet

Dogs use urine as a natural way to mark their territory and it is a very natural instinct. It allows them to communicate with other dogs that they were there, and it is ok to let that behavior continue while on walks to a certain point but can also be corrected. However, if it seems to become a more frequent issue, it is wise to consult your vet to confirm that it is not a health issue such as a bladder infection.

Chewing on the leash

Some dogs may see a leash attached to them as a large tug of war rope when they are excited about a walk, and it can make walking impossible. Work with your pup to be more relaxed at the sight of a leash, by rewarding them for sitting and staying when you hook them to the leash.

Lying down and refusing to walk

This action could mean that your dog is tired, not feeling well, or sometimes just being stubborn. When this happens, make sure that your dog is alright. Check their paws to ensure they are not rubbed raw or give your pup some water if they are panting and hot. Allow them time to rest and ensure that they are not injured.

Pulling while walking

We all know that dogs can get extremely excited on walks, and this can result in wanting to sprint as fast as possible! Tugging on the leash to go faster can get quite annoying and make it difficult to have a relaxing walk. This is a behavior that can be fixed with training, especially with positive reinforcement. If more action is needed, some specific collars and harnesses help to encourage your pup not to pull.

Going out for a walk is the highlight of your dog’s day, and hopefully a highlight of yours as well. Make your walks as enjoyable as possible by being knowledgeable about your dog’s behavior and correcting it when necessary.

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Sources:

https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/behavior-appearance/tips-for-walking-your-dog

Photo by mentatdgt: https://www.pexels.com/photo/man-and-woman-walking-the-dog-in-the-park-1485799