Online community, Gudog help new dog owners with five top tips for a stress-free first walk.
All dogs are unique, some are very quiet, while some are boisterous. Some love a good walk, while some love nothing more than curling up by the fire at home.
So, when it comes to taking your pooch for their first walk, you can never really predict how they are going to behave.
To help your first walk go as smoothly as possible, James McElroy, co-founder of Gudog has put together a list of five tips for you and your pooch to stay happy as Larry.
Get to know your pooch
Whether you’re being introduced to your new pet at a shelter, or you’re looking after a doggo for the first time, it’s always best to meet your dog and learn about their habits before you head out for your first walk.
If you’re looking after someone else’s pooch, popping into the owner’s house for a cuppa, or meeting them at the end of the street on your way home from work allows their fou-legged friend to have a good sniff of you whilst they’re in their comfort zone. It is also a great way to bond.
When meeting your new dog, make sure you ask the owner/place of adoption about the doggo’s habits and routines. Some key things to consider the average walk time, favourite places, and anything to watch out for. Perhaps they have a particular fear of something that you’ll want to avoid, or maybe they have a tendency to sniff out discarded chicken bones.
Ensure you’re well-equipped
For a stress-free walk, the perfect dog kit should be stocked fill with:
- Poop bags – three per walk is a good number to go by
- Water – during all seasons, not just summer
- A lead/harness and even a muzzle – the owner will advise whether relevant
- Treats and toys – it’s good to show the dog these early on as it helps maintain their interest and obedience.
Pick a short & familiar route
For their first walk, pick a familiar route to help your doggo feel relaxed. Your new friend will feel more settled if they’re walking in an area they know and on a route which they recognise. Try to keep your first walk between 30 minutes and an hour, which is enough time for your dog to stretch their legs and get used to your company.
Learn their commands
Not all dogs start as the perfect pooch, so prepare to spend some time teaching your pet some basic commands. Run some tests with the basic “come”, “stay”, or “sit” commands, they might surprise you. Use treats to build rapport and trust, and make sure to carry plenty in case you need them whilst you’re out and about.
Never let the dog off its lead
Only let your dog off their lead when you’re alone and in a fenced dog park. Once off their leads, there’s a risk that they could fight with other dogs, get lost or run into the road. Until you’ve established a high level of trust this is the most important rule to follow.
Commenting on the tips, James McElroy, co-founder of Gudog said: “Your first walk with your new pooch can be just as daunting as it can be exciting. It’s important you and your dog both feel comfortable, therefore it’s key to make sure you are prepared in order to keep your dog calm and feeling safe. Preparation will allow, both you and your pup, to enjoy the wonders of a stress-free walk, making getting to know each other run smoothly.”
You can find more tips and information on how to prepare for your first walk with a new dog here.
