3 Best Ways To Make Walks More Enjoyable

Have you been struggling to find new ways to make your walks more enjoyable? We have reached out to some of the best in the business to see what they had to say. They have given their insight into how you and your pup can have a better time while going out for a walk.

Dog Dude Ranch of Miami

Dog Dude Ranch of Miami is pet services company based in Miami, FL.

“The best way to make taking your dog for a walk more fun is to be sure to do things that you love too so it won’t feel like a chore and instead make it something fun for you both. Take this time to enjoy the great outdoors and especially to enjoy hanging out with your best furry friend. So while your dog is sniffing around and checking their “pee-mail”, you can look around and take pleasure in your surroundings. Inhale the fresh air, savor the beautiful green trees and grass and notice the squirrels and birds fluttering around. 

Another way to make your walk fun and even more healthy is to focus on sprinkling in fitness activities at the same time. Your pup will have fun while you get fit. Do a few sprints and lunges to build up those leg and heart muscles. Hit your neighborhood park and do push ups and sit ups followed by some relaxing stretches. Your dog will love having you on the ground with them and I am sure you will get a few extra wags and kisses too.  

And lastly, the most obvious and best way to make your walks more fun with your dog is to engage in some awesome play time together. Bring your tennis ball, frisbee, rope toy or anything else your dog loves and just go crazy throwing, tugging and just goofing off. Who else could you just relax and have so much fun with every day like this but your pup?”

Dogs Deserve It

Dogs Deserve It is a pet services company based in Chicago, IL.

1) “Use the correct equipment- proper collars and leashes make a huge impact on walks! If your dog is a puller, look into harnesses like the Easy Walker which will eliminate pulling.

2) Pay attention to your surroundings- nothing is worse than being caught off guard when you turn the corner and another dog lunges at you. Stay off your phone and focus on your dog so that you can have a positive, meaningful walk.

3) Dress for the elements!- Living in Chicago, we know what it means to have “bad” winters. You can enjoy your time more when you dress appropriately. We encourage all of our walkers to layer as you can always take off layers in case you get hot!”

Spotwalk

Spotwalk is a pet services company based in Philadelphia, PA.

“Comfy shoes mean happy paws — for both of you! Especially in the winter, salt and ice can get in between your pup’s pads, making walking painful for them. We recommend little rubber “balloon” type booties if there’s a lot of weather out.

Make sure you’ve got your keys attached to you, especially if you’re walking someone else dog — a squirrel and a dash can mean losing anything from your pockets that isn’t secured. 

Use the wrap-rule: always have the leash looped around your wrist as well as gripped in your hand. That way any mad dash is easily curtailed.”

Hoby Dogy

Hoby Dogy is a pet services company based in Hoboken, NJ.

“At Hoby Dogy, we have a ton of fun being dog walkers in Hoboken, NJ Whether seniors or puppies, your dog just wants to be by your side. Aren’t they awesome? So it’s your privilege and responsibility to make the time you spend together outside the happiest and safest possible. Our top tip for making walks with your dog the best thing you’ll do together all day is to use the right outdoor dog walking equipment. Your dog needs equipment based on their age (younger or older), breed (sporty or couch potato), temperament (anxious or relaxed) and walking style (energetic or laid-back). Check out different collars, harnesses and leashes at your local pet store or online to see what works best for a walk with your one-of-a-kind fur kid.”

Green Paws Chicago

Green Paws Chicago is a pet services company based in Chicago, IL.

“There are safety issues when walking a dog in a high density urban setting that you don’t encounter in other environments.

Although illegal, it’s not uncommon to exit a building to find a cyclist using the sidewalk — particularly along busy streets. Open exterior doors slowly, putting your dog between yourself and the door so that you’re protecting the dog from one side while using the door to shield your dog on the other.

Even though we always use two-handed leash technique regardless the neighborhood, it’s especially important in an urban environment where cars and cyclists often fly out of alleys across the path of the sidewalk. Always keep your leash perpendicular to the ground when exiting a building or approaching an alley or blind driveway; never allow your dog to get out in front of you in these situations.

Professional dog walkers never smoke, eat, take phone calls or message from their phone while on a walk. We also do not permit our staff to listen to iPods while on a walk because your ears are as important as your eyes when walking a dog in an urban setting. Is there an ambulance coming that could upset your dog? Is there another dog in the vicinity growling? You can’t know if you’re listening to headphones. While on a walk, 100% of your attention needs to be on your pet and your surroundings.”

Trusty Tails

Trusty Tails is a pet services company based in Hoboken, NJ.

1.) Good quality leash, collar, and harness that fit properly.

“Having a good quality leash, collar, and harness that fit your dog properly is always best. A harness or collar that is too tight are uncomfortable for your dog. A harness or collar that is too loose can be dangerous and there is nothing worse than having your dog slip out of their collar. I also always prefer a 4 foot leash as opposed to a 6 foot or retractable. I find that retractable leashes are prone to break and don’t allow for proper control over your pet.

2.) Have your dog walk ‘with’ you.

I have always found it’s most enjoyable when your dog is walking along side you. With a 4 foot leash, ensure your dog has enough slack, and stays right beside you.  By taking the time to teach your dog how to walk on a leash beside you, you don’t have to worry about your dog dragging you into the street or taking ‘you’ for a walk.  

3.)  Train your dog to sniff and go the bathroom on command

I have always trained my dogs to go the bathroom on command. I also tell them when they can sniff. I use the term “hurry up” when I want him to go. It’s nice being able to walk and not worry about your dog lifting his leg on everything, sniffing everything, or pooping in the wrong spot. People are always amazed at how my dogs go on command. If you take the time to teach them, it’s so worth it! Especially when you’re in a pinch for time, there’s nothing better than being able to tell your dog to “hurry up” and them understand it’s time to do their business.

4.) Don’t forget your poo bags!”

Blue Dog SF

Blue Dog SF is a pet services company based in San Francisco, CA.

1.  “Always be prepared! Make sure you have bags on you before you leave the house, and take a second before you leave to set out a towel if it’s raining. Future you will thank you, and you’ll be more relaxed to enjoy your outing with your dog.

2.  Don’t be afraid to explore! If you walk the same route over and over, it’s likely to become dull. Go to a park you’ve never been to, or turn left when you normally turn right. Both you and your pup will experience new sights (and smells!). It’s the small things that make all the difference.

3.  Speaking of the little things–learn to enjoy them. Whether it’s smelling the flowers or taking a short break to enjoy the sunshine, there are plenty of lessons our furry friends can teach us. Every walk we take is an adventure for them, and there’s no reason it should be any different for us!”

Jordan’s Pet Care

Jordan’s Pet Care is a pet services company based in Brooklyn, NY.

“My top three recommendations for making walks more enjoyable are safety, sniffing and socialization. Safety should always be prioritized! This means making sure you are keeping an eye on your dog and being present during the walk. You never know when an unfriendly dog, a scary noise, a chicken bone or some other distraction or potential danger can come out of nowhere, especially if you’re in the city. If you’re aware and anticipating any problems then you can avoid them making for a more pleasant walk for everyone!

Sniffing! Your dog likes to sniff! That’s how dogs sense and understand the world around them. Most of your dog’s time is probably spent inside so be patient with your dog on walks and let them sniff. Try to give them a few extra minutes so you’re not rushing them along. This will help them find a place to go to the bathroom and will make them happier on the walk. Take some time to let your dogs smell the roses and other smells!

Socialization! Dogs are social creatures. If your dog is friendly then give them a chance to meet other dogs on the street or in the park–they will love it! Imagine if you only hung out with animals and rarely got to see people? You’d probably want to take advantage of any encounter you had with a human and it’s the same for your dog so let them do what they do naturally and socialize. Just make sure you’re keeping an eye on body language as sometimes even friendly dogs don’t get along. If your dog isn’t friendly make sure you’re avoiding other dogs with treats or by crossing the street.

These basic tips should make your walks much better for you and your dog!”

Pawfect Day

Pawfect Day is a pet services company based in New York, NY.

Choose different routes

“Sometimes the same route can become boring. Spruce it up with a detour through the local park or river. Different paths provides good mental and physical stimulation. This allows your dog to process all sorts of new smells to find out who else has been there. You may also bump into other dogs there for socialization. Be sure to ask if the dog is friendly before letting them greet.

Carry treats during walks

Carrying treats during your walk create a positive association. If your pooch is not very enthusiastic about walks, introducing treats while outdoors may give them a reason for excitement. Make sure to always keep your dog hydrated during long walks. I will carry a doggie water bottle with me and walk in the shade whenever possible.

Plan Pitstops in Between

If the weather is nice, you can walk to your nearest dog-friendly restaurant and hang out. Some restaurants with outdoor seating will even provide your pooch with their very own water bowl and biscuit! You’d be surprised at how many fans you’ll make and your doggo will soak up all the attention.”

Waggy Walkys

Waggy Walkys is a pet services company based in Falls Church, VA.

1. “Take your time, don’t rush. Your pet wants to spend time with you outside, exploring and walking.

2. Don’t get distracted, your phone and other distractions can take your focus away from your pet and cause serious injury.

3. Keep waste bags with you at all times, most communities require you to remove any solid waste left produced by your pet. This keeps the area sanitary for other pet owners.”

As you can see there a many different ways that you can make your walks more enjoyable with your four legged friends! Take it from the experts who know, when implementing these strategies it will make your dog happy as well as you.

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