Did you know that up to 40% of American dog owners don’t pick up after their pets? When you think about walking a dog you probably wonder how you could truly do that wrong… but you can. Here are some tips for being a good neighbor while walking your dog.
DO put your dog on a leash.
While you may feel that your dog is trained and doesn’t need a leash, you should be thoughtful to those around you. Some dogs have been trained to obey even without a leash, but when it comes to walks, sometimes the leash is for your fellow humans rather than your dog.
DON’T use your phone while walking your dog.
Roughly 1.2 million dogs are hit by cars each year in the United States. Don’t let you pup be a statistic. Walk your dog should be time spent with your dog, as opposed to being on your phone.
DO bring treats.
Dogs aren’t that complicated. Bringing dog treats will increase the chance your pup will listen to you and follow directions. This can be used as a further training method and is definitely a way you can ensure your dog is under your control while you’re out in public for a walk.
DON’T leave your dogs feces wherever they decided to squat.
No one wants to have to scoop their yard for poop that’s not their pet’s. Letting your pup pop a squat on someone else’s yard (or the sidewalk) is not okay to do! Take a bag and pick up after your best friend.
DO make sure your dog wears an ID tag or collar.
Shelters are filled with animals who escaped a yard or wandered off. Having a collar with an ID that lists your dog’s name and how to contact you can save the day. Many people won’t approach a dog if there’s no sign of a human contact to trace it to, but seeing a collar can make them less afraid to approach a random dog and increases the chances of reuniting lost pets with their owners.
