Few dogs will turn down the chance to go for a walk. In fact, you may feel as though your dog could go on a walk for hours on end. Making sure your dog has a safe walk means it will have a happy walk. There are a variety of ways to ensure your dog is happy and safe during your daily walk.
1. Bring Water
Taking your dog on a long walk without water, especially in hot weather, is very risky. This opens your dog up to a variety of potential health problems, such as a heat stroke. Cool water doesn’t just refresh a dog, it helps it keep its body temperature regulated. Fortunately, there are many easy ways to carry water with you on a walk. Many dog bowls are collapsable, making it easy to tuck away in a bag or purse. Some parks may even incorporate a communal water bowl or hose. If your dog is panting heavily or appears thirsty, take a water break. It could save your dog’s life!
2. Use the Correct Leash
While some areas allow dogs to be off of a leash, many require a leash. This is for the safety of dogs and their owners. When it comes to leashes, there are many to choose from. Using the wrong leash can cause harm to the owner and the dog. Nylon leashes are cheap and easy to clean, but can cause leash burn on the owner and are easy for the dog to chew through. Retractable leashes teach your dog that pulling on the leash is okay and can cause injuries to dogs and their owners (as well as bystanders). Leather leashes are a great option for any dog owner. They are comfortable for both the dog and their owner and will last an owner for years.
If your dog has trouble behaving when it is on a leash, you might consider using a dog bridle. Typically, when a person sees a dog bridle for the first time, they mistake it for a muzzle. However, a dog bridle will only give your dog’s scruff a small cinching sensation to deliver negative reinforcement. This is a great option for adult dogs who may have suffered from trauma. For many, the only way to familiarize a previously abused dog with other dogs and people is by taking them on a walk. While the use of a choke collar or prong collar could result in injuries, a dog bridle will help a dog adjust, while keeping them safe.
3. Correctly Using a Collar
The best way to ensure your dog will have a happy, safe walk is to ensure their collar is on correctly. A collar carries the dog tag, which includes vital information that will make it easy for others to identify your dog if it runs away. The collar is also a quick way of stopping your dog if you lose grip of its leash or need to keep it still. No dog wants to be walked on a leash with a collar that is too tight. When you adjust your dog’s collar, you should ensure that you can slide two fingers between the collar and the dog’s neck.
Premium Dog Collars for Any Walk
If you are looking for premium dog collars and leashes that will guarantee your dog a happy, safe walk, Woofwerks is your best option. We craft each of our dog collars, leashes, and leads with your dog’s comfort in mind. We use durable English bridle leather for each of our collars and leashes, meaning that they will last you for years. Woofwerk’s premium dog collars will not only ensure that your dog is the classiest looking dog at the park but the most comfortable.
