The Ultimate Guide to Puppy Care and Training by Tracy J. Libby

Author:Tracy J. Libby [Libby, Tracy]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: CompanionHouse Books
Published: 2014-11-11T05:00:00+00:00

Walking

Most puppies are too young for strenuous exercise, but you can still give them the physical activity that they need. Daily walks at local parks or around the neighborhood are ideal. (Be sure that your puppy is fully vaccinated before exposing him to public venues, where the risk of infection is higher.) How far your puppy can walk will depend on his age and size and the type of terrain. Walking up and down hills or on sandy beaches will be more tiring to a young puppy than walking on flat sidewalks or grass.

Mix up his walks by taking him to new and different places. No doubt he will love experiencing new sights and smells. Group walks are fun and motivating, especially if your puppy likes other dogs, although a canine buddy may be too distracting for some puppies. Your puppy may be so excited that he goes into overstimulation mode, which can make on-leash walking difficult.

Puppies who are fearful or react aggressively on leash when approached by another dog (or even the moment they see another dog) can make walking an exhausting and frustrating chore rather a fun, relaxing outing. If this is the case with your puppy, you may need to contact a dog trainer or behaviorist because this behavior can be caused by a wide range of motivations or emotional states. You want to nip it in the bud before it becomes an ingrained behavior.

Ideally, you should use a buckle collar or harness as opposed to a choke or check chain, which can damage your puppy’s throat and/or coat. The type of leash you use is really a personal preference, but you may find that a 4- or 6-foot soft leather or corded leash is gentlest on your hands.

Always obey leash laws, especially in wilderness areas where your puppy is likely to chase wildlife or damage native plants (not to mention that many plants and flowers are toxic to dogs). Also, be considerate and do not allow your dog to potty on your neighbors’ lawns. If an accident happens, be sure to pick it up with a plastic bag or disposable poop bag.

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