15 Things You Shouldn’t Do When Walking Your Dog 

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Walking your dog seems straightforward, but hidden dangers can put your pet at risk. Many owners unknowingly make mistakes that affect their dog’s health and well-being, and veterinarians frequently witness the consequences of these errors. To keep your dog safe during walks, it’s important to understand the potential risks you may be unknowingly exposing it to.

Using an Inappropriate Leash

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Your dog will be prone to accidents and discomfort if you use the wrong leash. A retractable leash, for example, may give your dog too much freedom, increasing the risk of injury. Veterinarians recommend a sturdy, fixed-length leash for better control and safety during walks.

Warm-Up Exercises

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If you go straight into a walk without a warm-up, your dog’s muscles can strain, particularly if it is older or less active. Take a few minutes for light activity, like stretching or slow walking, before a more vigorous walk to prevent injuries and ensure your dog’s muscles are ready.

Not Picking Up After Your Dog

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Not picking up after your dog isn’t just inconsiderate; it’s harmful to the environment and public health. Dog waste carries bacteria and parasites that can contaminate water sources and spread diseases. Always take waste bags with you and clean up after your dog to keep your community safe and clean.

Ignoring Your Dog’s Body Language

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Your dog communicates discomfort, fear, or anxiety through body language. Signs like tail tucking, excessive panting, or pulling on the leash may indicate your dog is stressed or tired. Pay attention to these cues and adjust the walk accordingly to keep your dog comfortable.

Using a Prong or Shock Collar

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Veterinarians recommend avoiding prong and shock collars, as they can lead to injuries and negatively impact your dog’s behavior and trust. Instead, use positive reinforcement training methods and a well-fitted, humane collar or harness.

Walking in Extreme Temperatures

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Extreme heat or cold can be dangerous for your dog. Hot pavement can burn their paws, while cold weather can lead to frostbite or hypothermia. Consider the weather and make sure the ground is safe before heading out, or take your dog for shorter walks during extreme conditions.

Letting Your Dog Lead

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If you allow your dog to lead, the walk can reinforce bad habits, like pulling on the leash or chasing after distractions. You must maintain a steady pace and gently guide your dog to prevent these behaviors to have a safer and more enjoyable walk for you and your pet.

Overlooking Hydration Needs

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Dogs can quickly dehydrate, especially during long walks or warm weather. Veterinarians advise bringing water for your dog and offering it regularly during the walk. This helps prevent heatstroke and ensures your dog stays hydrated and healthy, particularly on more strenuous outings.

Lack of Reflective Gear

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Don’t walk your dog in low-light conditions without reflective gear because it’s dangerous for you both. Professional veterinarians emphasize the importance of making sure you and your dog are visible to drivers and cyclists. Use reflective leashes, collars, and vests to help prevent accidents and ensure safe walks during early morning or evening hours.

Allowing Your Dog to Sniff Everything

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While it’s natural for dogs to sniff during walks, allowing them to investigate every object can lead to them ingesting something harmful or contracting illnesses. It’s recommended that you control your dog’s sniffing habits and guide them away from potentially dangerous areas.

Skipping Regular Walks

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Inconsistent walking routines can lead to behavioral issues and weight gain. Vets who work with dogs recommend regular walks to maintain your dog’s physical and mental health. Consistent exercise helps manage weight, reduces anxiety, and provides necessary stimulation.

Tugging On the Leach Too Hard

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Never tug on your dog’s leash roughly since it could cause issues like severe whiplash injuries that may lead to neck misalignment. Such injuries can disrupt the body’s energy flow, potentially leading to long-term health issues. In extreme cases, this can predispose the dog to serious conditions like cancer.

Not Checking Paws After the Walk

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After a walk, especially on rough terrain or during extreme weather, it’s important to check your dog’s paws for injuries, debris, or irritation. Veterinarians recommend inspecting and cleaning your dog’s paws after every walk to prevent infections, discomfort, and long-term damage.

Forgetting Identification Tags

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Accidents can happen, and your dog might slip away during a walk. Hence, your dog should always wear up-to-date identification tags. These tags increase the chances of a safe return if your dog gets lost because they provide important contact information to anyone who finds them.

Ignoring Breed-Specific Needs

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All dog breeds have different exercise requirements. Experts advise tailoring walks to your dog’s breed, size, and energy level. High-energy breeds may need longer, more intense walks, while smaller or older dogs might benefit from shorter, gentler strolls. 

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