Atlanta’s charming neighborhoods and sprawling parks offer fantastic opportunities for dog walks. But navigating city streets, suburbs, and popular trails requires more than just a leash. As Atlanta’s most seasoned dog walkers, we know a thing or two about acing dog walks. Today, I’m bringing you my top 5 dog walking tips from Atlanta’s most experienced dog walkers – the Buckhead Pet Pals dog walking team!
1. Unleash the Power of the Sniff
For dogs, walks aren’t just about physical exercise; they’re about olfactory exploration – aka sniffing. Allowing your dog to sniff is crucial for mental stimulation and can even have a calming effect. Dog trainers often say that, to a dog, sniffing is the equivalent of reading the newspaper. By sniffing, dogs gather information about their environment.
If you’re trying to burn some calories, yours or your dogs’, encourage sniff breaks along the way, letting your dog investigate interesting smells. Interactive walks that incorporate sniffing and exercise work very well. Think of it as interval training for dogs!
2. Keep It Fresh with New Routes
Routine walks that follow the same route every day can be boring for dogs. Varying your walking route and exploring different paths can do wonders for their mental stimulation. New sights, smells, and sounds will challenge and enrich your dog’s mind, making each walk an exciting adventure.
What I like to do is let my dogs lead. When we come out of our home, I follow them either right or left, letting them decide where we’re heading. We make a lot of decisions on our pets’ behalves so letting them choose the direction of our walk feels like the right thing to do.
3. Establish Boundaries and Expectations with Cues
Effective communication (in addition to proper equipment) is key to a well-behaved dog on a walk. Using cues like “leave it” and “look at me” can help establish boundaries and expectations. “Leave it” can prevent your dog from picking up potentially harmful objects, while “look at me” helps redirect their attention in distracting or unsettling situations.
These cues are also helpful in other situations. “Leave it” can be used if your dog lunges toward a person or other animal, and “look at me” can be used to distract your dog from the UPS truck that seems to have offended them in a past life.
Remember to reward when they get it right!
4. Always Be Prepared with Poop Bags and Leash Control
This one seems obvious, but it’s worth repeating: always carry extra poop bags! Responsible pet ownership means cleaning up after your dog, no matter where you are. Brining only one poop bag is not ideal because you may need more. Always carry at least two – and dispose of it properly – either in a public wastebasket or in your home trashcan.
As for leashes, ditch the retractable ones. While they may seem convenient, they don’t offer the same level of control or safety as a standard 4-6 foot leash. Retractable leashes are not an ideal restraint for exercising; the mechanism that retracts can fail and the cord has, on many occasions, caused injuries when extended.
5. Safety First with Spray Deterrents and Noise Makers
While most encounters on dog walks are positive, it’s essential to be prepared for potentially dangerous situations. Carrying a spray deterrent, such as citronella spray, or a noise maker, like an air horn, can help deter aggressive dogs or wildlife. The explosive action of opening an umbrella can startle some incoming dogs into staying away. Also, consider having a walking stick with you.
All that said, being aware of your surroundings is the best way to ensure you and your dog stay safe. It’s critical to be on the lookout for any incoming vehicles, individuals, or animals that could endanger both you and your dog. I tell our dog walkers and pet sitters all the time – don’t get distracted and remember that prevention is key to dog walking safety.
Atlanta’s Most Experienced Dog Walkers
By following our tips above, you can transform your daily stroll into a safe, stimulating, and enjoyable experience for both you and your canine companion. So, leash up, head out, and explore all that Atlanta has to offer, one paw-some walk at a time!
If walking the dog is a bridge too far, count on us. Our team of dedicated, knowledgable dog walkers is here to help exercise and enrich your dog when you can’t!
Existing clients, please request dog walking services here. New clients, learn more about our onboarding process and scheduling software/app here. We welcome your questions and comments via phone at 404-303-0312 or email at office@buckheadpetpals.com.
Buckhead Pet Pals proudly serves Atlanta, Buckhead, Sandy Spring, Marietta, and Roswell. Learn more about our service area here.
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