Warm but wet weather

The snow and ice are gone and now we can all get back to walking our dogs. Walks are a very important part of dog care and if you aren't walking your dog you really should add it to your list of resolutions for 2009!

Walks are a great form of structured exercise. Many dogs settle into a routine at home because it is comforting and they often do the same with their yard, especially if they don't have a companion or one who engages them in playful behavior. While the yard is a convenient place for relieving themselves not all dogs will get sufficient exercise by being let out.

Another benefit of walking your dog is that it reinforces your position as the pack leader. You determine the pace, you decide when potty time is over and allow time to explore, and you determine the length of the walk (only in part, if you have an older dog don't push them too hard and if you have a younger dog put on comfortable shoes before you head out the door).

Walks also allow your dog to meet other dogs in the community. Socialization is important for dogs because they are pack animals. Isolation can lead to fear or aggression towards other dogs. Remember, use a short leash during introductions and correct inappropriate behavior.

Dogs are like humans in that they are diurnal which means they are most active during the day. That makes morning walks ideal because that's usually when they are brimming with energy. It's best if you can feed them after the walk so that they have earned their meal because, despite they lazy disposition, all dogs need some kind of a job. Don't forget to let them out to relieve themselves after their meal and before you leave the house!

Don't forget to enforce the pack order on the walk. You should be the first out the door and the first back in when you get home. During the walk your dog should walk beside or behind you. Allowing them to walk in front of you communicates that you're the follower which means, by default, that they are the leader.

Finally, carry enough bags on your walk to clean up after your dog. It's part of being a responsible dog owner and a responsible member of the community.

Get walking!

P.S. Flexi-leads are NOT appropriate for sighthounds. They do not allow for sufficient control and the plastic spool is relatively fragile. There is no substitute for a good traditional leash.