Did
you know that wolves and dogs are related to each other? From the
Great Dane to the toy Chihuahua, all breed of dogs are direct
descendants of the wolf. And because of that, many of the wolf’s
characteristics and behaviors still survive in today’s domestic dogs. One
of the similarities that exist between wolves and dogs is their ability
to travel long distances. Most dogs (except for breeds that have been
radically changed by man’s selective breeding) have the energy and
strength to travel an average of fifteen miles a day. Those dogs
who do not get enough dog walking become frustrated and often
demonstrate destructive, undesirable behaviors such as barking, chewing,
running away, and digging. As a professional dog walker and pet sitter in Boca Raton, Florida, I can hear the frustrated barking of dogs that are not able to get out during the workdays and dogs that are crated for long periods of time. Dog walking, whether it is dog walking
on a leash or dog exercise off the leash is the most common and
universal way to exercise your dog. In fact, dog walking is an
excellent activity. And being a responsible dog walker includes carrying dog waste bags for picking up solid waste for proper disposal in designated dog waste stations, dumpsters, residential trash barrels - make sure you know where these are located near your dog walking route. In the city of Boca Raton where I live and provide my dog walking services, I always know where the nearest place is to dispose of the dog waste baggies - and my customers, neighbors and other workers in my areas know and appreciate this! Both you and your dog can benefit from dog
walking by getting an adequate amount exercise. Another neat aspect of
dog walking is that it gives you an opportunity to meet people. Dog
walking is a wonderful way to meet someone with whom you can form a “dog
play group”. When dog walking, pay close attention to your dog.
Make sure that he does not relieve himself on the neighbor's lawn. If
possible, have him relieve himself at home before you start the dog
walking. You should also prevent him from distracting other people and
elements. Dog walking is also a great way to train your dog to
walk without pulling on his leash. Dog walking is not good nor is it
fun if your dog is constantly tugging you down the street while you are
gasping and wheezing for air. It is also not good for your arm. If you
are a beginner at dog walking, you might need to be stubborn at first
because it is not natural for a very excited dog to walk at a normal
pace to match yours. I recommend using a standard nylon, leather or similar leash that is non-retractable and a short length of 3-4" to keep your dog by your side - the flexible, retractable leashes that extend up to 20' are dangerous, can allow your dog to get into trouble with hiding animals, snakes and other dangers in shrubs, can snap if the the dog pulls suddenly and also does not allow you to properly interact with your dog. Retractable leashes should only be used in dog parks (Mizner Bark City of Boca Raton Dog Park) When anyone is taking your dog walking, whether it is a family member, friend or professional dog walker, make sure that they are aware that pulling is not allowed. Keeping your dog close by has many important reasons, not the least of which is safety, but also including control and socialization.
Consistency is important; you do not want your dog to get into the habit
of pulling his leash while being walked, which makes the activity more
difficult for you. Dog walking should be a pleasant experience for both
you and your dog and one that both of you can look forward to. About the author: Nanette Gordon is the business owner and personal care provider for her company Nanette L. Gordon Enterprises Inc. in Boca Raton, Florida. Since 2002, she has been pet sitting, dog walking and house watching in east Boca Raton and nearby for zip codes 33432, 33486, 33431, 33487 and 33441. Visit her website for more details: http://nanettegordon.com |








