Top Tips for Safe and Happy Dog Walking: Dos and Don'ts
Below are five common incorrect ways of walking a dog:
1. Occasional Walks with Excessive Exercise
Many dog owners, especially those who work fulltime, often find themselves with limited time to walk their pets. Some mistakenly believe that if they're going to walk their dog, they should do it all at once, making up for missed walks by going on long, strenuous walks. However, this approach is highly detrimental. Dogs that haven't exercised for several days can suffer from a sudden, overwhelming physical strain, which can harm their health. It's crucial to ensure your dog gets regular, moderate exercise rather than occasional, exhaustive walks.
2. Allowing the Dog to Wander on Its Own
There are instances where people simply let their dogs off the leash, thinking it's fun for the dog to roam free. This is an incredibly irresponsible act. Not only does it risk the dog getting lost or encountering danger, but it also poses a threat to others. Always keep your dog on a leash during walks to ensure both the safety of your pet and those around you.
3. Walking the Dog in Extreme Heat
While it's generally a good idea to walk your dog on sunny days, it's a mistake to do so during the peak heat of the day. Humans and dogs have different tolerances to heat, and what might be a comfortable temperature for us could lead to overheating in our furry friends.
4. Bicycling or Driving with the Dog
Some people take shortcuts by biking or driving with their dogs, which is not walking but rather running. Walking a dog should be a leisurely activity with varying speeds and frequent stops. Bicycling or driving your dog can subject them to highintensity exercise, which can strain their lungs and even be lifethreatening.
5. Long Walks with Senior or Puppies
Senior dogs and puppies do not have the same robust physique or stamina as adult dogs. Therefore, they are not suited for long walks. Prolonged exercise can be harmful to their delicate bodies, so it's important to tailor their walks to their needs.
