Walking your dog should be a joyful experience for both of you, but sometimes our furry friends exhibit behaviours that can make walks challenging. Understanding why dogs behave the way they do during walks is key to managing these situations effectively and ensuring that every outing is enjoyable. At Paws & Paths of Dorchester, we’re passionate about helping dog owners navigate these challenges with ease. In this article, we’ll explore common dog behaviours during walks and offer tips on how to manage them, all while highlighting how our services can support you and your pet.
1. Pulling on the Lead
One of the most common issues dog owners face is their dog pulling on the lead. This behaviour often stems from a dog’s natural curiosity and eagerness to explore their surroundings. However, constant pulling can make walks stressful and uncomfortable.
Tip: To manage lead pulling, consider using a no-pull harness, which can help reduce the strain on your dog’s neck and give you more control. Additionally, training your dog to walk at your pace using positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewarding them when they walk calmly beside you, can make a significant difference. Consistency is key—practice in quiet areas before moving to more distracting environments.
2. Reactivity to Other Dogs or People
Some dogs may react strongly to other dogs, people, or even vehicles passing by. This reactivity can manifest as barking, lunging, or trying to chase, which can make walks challenging, especially in busy areas.
Tip: If your dog is reactive, try to create distance between your dog and the trigger by crossing the street or changing direction. Practicing the “look at me” command, where your dog focuses on you rather than the trigger, can also help. Gradual desensitisation to triggers in a controlled environment is another effective approach. If reactivity is severe, consulting a professional dog trainer may be beneficial.
3. Sniffing Everything
Dogs experience the world primarily through their sense of smell, so it’s natural for them to want to sniff everything during a walk. While sniffing is a healthy behaviour that provides mental stimulation, excessive sniffing can slow down your walk.
Tip: Allow your dog some time to sniff, but set boundaries by using a cue like “let’s go” when it’s time to move on. Designate specific parts of the walk for sniffing and others for focused walking. This balance ensures your dog gets the enrichment they need without turning the walk into a stop-and-sniff marathon.
4. Refusing to Walk
Some dogs may suddenly refuse to walk or may frequently stop during walks. This behaviour can be puzzling and frustrating for owners.
Tip: Check for any physical discomfort, such as sore paws or an ill-fitting harness, that might be causing your dog to stop. If your dog is simply being stubborn or is overwhelmed, try encouraging them with a cheerful tone, treats, or a favourite toy. Gradually build up their confidence by starting with shorter walks in familiar, low-stress areas before progressing to longer or more challenging routes.
5. Excessive Barking
Excessive barking during walks can be a sign of excitement, fear, or a desire to communicate. It’s important to address this behaviour to ensure a peaceful walk for both you and your dog.
Tip: Understanding the cause of the barking is the first step. If your dog is barking out of excitement, teaching them to focus on you with commands like “quiet” or “watch me” can help. If fear or anxiety is the cause, work on building your dog’s confidence through positive reinforcement and gradually exposing them to the trigger in a controlled manner.
How Paws & Paths of Dorchester Can Help
At Paws & Paths of Dorchester, we understand that every dog is unique, with their own quirks and challenges. Our experienced dog walkers are trained to handle a variety of behaviours, ensuring that your dog enjoys a safe, structured, and enjoyable walk every time. Whether your dog needs gentle guidance to stop pulling on the lead or extra attention to manage reactivity, we’re here to help.
Our personalised dog walking services are tailored to meet the specific needs of your pet, providing the exercise, mental stimulation, and socialisation they need to thrive. By choosing Paws & Paths of Dorchester, you can rest assured that your dog is in capable hands, receiving the care and attention they deserve.
Contact us today to learn more about how our dog walking services can support you and your furry friend. Together, we can make every walk a positive and rewarding experience!
Paws & Paths, Dorchester 