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Puppy Walking Training Tips

Getting a new puppy is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences anyone can have. The love, joy, and memories you can build are enough to brighten up your days. However, many are concerned with some of the basic needs a pup has. For instance, walking a puppy on a leash can be difficult for people who have never gone through this training experience. Our Atlanta dog sitting company invites you to keep reading as we offer some valuable tips for training your pup to walk on a leash.

Tips for Training a Puppy to Walk on a Leash

Congratulations on bringing a new puppy into your and your family’s life! Nothing spells love, care, and loyalty quite like “puppy.” However, for many people, handling a little ball of fluff can prove challenging and sometimes overwhelming. This is especially true for new dog parents who have no experience training a puppy. One of the most challenging and essential things to do when bringing a new puppy into your life is teaching him to walk on a leash. Training your dog to walk on a leash takes more than just attaching the leash to a harness and taking Fido outside for a walk. If you do this from the get-go, chances are your pup will either be scared and confused or develop bad behaviors that can be difficult to assess and modify moving forward.

Everything should begin with the essential feature: the leash or collar. Before attempting to walk your dog, you should take some time to introduce your pup to their leash or harness. When you put their leash on for the first time, let him get used to it and reward him with a delicious treat. Take the leash or harness on and off in intervals so he can get used to it. Repeating this process will help your pup associate their leash or harness with something good, especially when there are treats involved.

Once your pup is used to their leash, take some time every day to practice walking on a leash inside the house. Take a couple of minutes and walk your dog. Divide the walking time with your pup into five-minute walks twice a day. Once you are done, make sure to reward him with a treat. Positive reinforcement and association are key during leash walking training. Once your pup feels comfortable enough walking on a leash, it’s time to go outside.

There are different things you should keep an eye on when walking your dog outside for the first time. When your pup walks outside for the first time, he will go through uncharted territories. Different elements can catch him off guard. Things like sounds, smells, and textures can easily distract your pup. This moment requires some patience from your part. Let your pup explore and go around. Let him select his favorite spot to do his business and encourage him to walk alongside you.

Make sure to take your pup out when the sun is not too intense or the temperatures are high. A short walk in the morning and evening should be enough to help him burn energy, stimulate his senses, and strengthen the bond between both of you. Our Georgia dog walkers have years of experience walking both dogs and puppies new to the leash. Contact us if you need a thorough and experienced dog walking company to handle your pet while you are away.

For How Long Should I Walk My Puppy?

This is a question many people with a puppy may ask. Puppies, while energetic, tend to be weak in their early days. Therefore, their walks should not take more than necessary. As we stated before, walking your pup two times a day can be extremely beneficial as they grow and develop. At first, take them out for two walks, each consisting of five minutes, and let them enjoy their surroundings. Make sure to always keep an eye out for signs of exhaustion or overheating. Make sure to always carry water and treats with you to appropriately reward and reinforce good conduct.

Additionally, you may confront different situations that may difficult walking your puppy on a leash. Some pups may develop a habit of barking at things they find strange such as other people, dogs, cats, among others. The best way to deal with this behavior is by redirecting their attention to something else like their favorite toy or a yummy treat. If you feel your pup is getting out of control and cannot find a solution, make sure to give your vet a call and explain your situation. They may offer you an easy, fun solution to your problem.

Professional Dog Walking Company Serving Atlanta, GA

Our Atlanta, GA pet sitters are ready to help you when, for any reason, you can’t take care of your pet. We know life happens and can surprise us when we least expect it. You don’t have to feel stressed or overwhelmed because there is nobody who can take care of your puppy. At Critter Sitters, we can help you by walking your pets, cleaning any mess at home, feeding them, and giving them nothing but love and care. To learn more about all of our services, and how we can help you take care of your pup, call our offices today at (404) 793-6178.

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