Five Tips for Enjoyable Walks with Your Small Dog

Taking a stroll with your furry friend is one of life’s simple pleasures. However, getting your little companion to cooperate can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. Not to worry though – we’ve got you covered! Read on for five essential tips to enhance the quality of walks with your small dog.

 Start with a Calm Canine

Is the pre-walk rattling of the lead or question, “Ready for a walk?” sending your small dog into a whirlwind of excitement? It’s heartwarming to see such enthusiasm, but remember, a relaxed atmosphere makes for a perfect walk, especially if your petite pooch has a tendency to pull on the lead.

Strive for tranquillity before stepping out the door. As you reach down to attach the harness or collar, let your dog approach you. Once you’ve attached the lead, offer soft praise and a gentle pat. The aim is a calm, composed companion ready to trot by your side.

And remember, your mood counts too! Dogs are experts at sensing our energy. If you’re rushing to fit in a walk before dinner, your hurried energy might rub off on your canine.

Prevent Door-Dashing

Now you have a relaxed dog ready for a walk, the next hurdle is the front door. Excited barks, scratching, or spinning might have you pulling your hair out. Here’s a tip: stay still until your dog relaxes and sits. With a calm demeanour, you and your dog can leave without any yanking at the leash, crucial for those with front steps to navigate.

What if your dog bolts out the door at the slightest crack? Try calmly calling them back, ask them to perform an easy to follow cue like ‘sit’. Remember, patience is key. It might take a few attempts, but your eager-to-please small breed will quickly catch on with gentle praise.

Lead the Way, Not the Pull

Does your dog pull on the lead? Here’s a tried-and-true technique. Take ten steps in one direction, call your dog’s name, and change direction. The moment your dog turns, leaving a slack lead, lavish them with praise and offer a treat. The reward is for the loose lead, not the turn, so time it well. Remember, your small breed’s neck is delicate, and consistent daily pulling could lead to health issues like a collapsed trachea.

Repeat this exercise for five minutes. The key is consistency to keep your dog focused on you using calm praise for loose lead walking.

Sniffing Spots

Just as you enjoy scrolling through Facebook or Instagram, dogs love to ‘scroll’ through their environment using their nose. It’s their way of catching up with the local doggy news. However, constant sniffing might slow your walks.

To help with this, designate specific ‘non-sniffing spots’ along your walking route. If your pup stops in a non-sniffing zone, use your version of “leave it” to redirect them. Shower them with praise when they leave a no-sniff spot – they’ve done a great job!

Change the Scenery

While routines are comforting, a change of scene can be stimulating for both of you. Try a new part of the neighbourhood or a city park for fresh sights and exciting smells. This provides your small breed with much-needed physical and mental stimulation.

Power Up with Proper Nutrition

Alright, here’s a little something extra for sticking with us! Ensuring your dog is well-fed and receiving the right nutrition is essential. Opting for products like ORIJEN Small Breed can ensure they get the nutrients they need. This diet is not only high in quality animal ingredients, rich in protein but it’s also designed to match your small breed dog’s evolutionary diet, giving them the energy and nourishment they require.

So, as well as taking our advice on the walk, why not make sure your dog is enjoying the best food for their needs too? After all, good nutrition is the stepping stone to a happy, healthy pooch – and that will surely translate into more joyful walks!

Here’s to many happy dog walks together!