Walk your dog, do not let the dog walk you. Making the decision for your dog to heel with you while on a walk will make the walks enjoyable and will communicate with your dog that you are in control.
Allowing your dog to be the leader can lead to behavioral issues. Not only does a dog need physical exercise on a daily basis but mental exercise as well. When a dog is hyper or high strung it means the dog is not getting the proper type or amount of exercise they need to be stable. When a dog is under-stimulated he is more likely to tear up the rug in the kitchen or dig a hole in the backyard. After all, he needs to release that pent-up energy and frustration somehow.
As the pack leader it is very important that you are making the decisions on the walk. When you left the house who went out the door first? You or the dog? When you are walking does your dog make the decision to go sniff the tree while you stop and wait? Teaching your dog to walk nicely next to you and sit at crosswalks will ensure your walks are relaxing and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
Allowing your dog to be the leader can lead to behavioral issues. Not only does a dog need physical exercise on a daily basis but mental exercise as well. When a dog is hyper or high strung it means the dog is not getting the proper type or amount of exercise they need to be stable. When a dog is under-stimulated he is more likely to tear up the rug in the kitchen or dig a hole in the backyard. After all, he needs to release that pent-up energy and frustration somehow.
As the pack leader it is very important that you are making the decisions on the walk. When you left the house who went out the door first? You or the dog? When you are walking does your dog make the decision to go sniff the tree while you stop and wait? Teaching your dog to walk nicely next to you and sit at crosswalks will ensure your walks are relaxing and strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
