by Eddie Brawley

Created on: January 06, 2009

Walking a dog is kind of like driving a car: you're out in public with an unpredictable and possibly threatening thing for which you are responsible. I don't mean to compare a dog to a car and please don't think I'm having a shot at your dog, but it's true. A dog can be very dangerous no matter how much you think it loves you, etc. On the other hand, there are also many things from which you must protect your dog.

When you're in public with your dog it's important to make sure it has an appropriate collar and/or harness. If you have the wrong collar you could be choking your dog without even knowing it. This is harmful to the dog and can make him or her unpredictable. Do not choke your dog. In cold weather, it's important that short-haired dogs have a sweater or jacket. As ridiculous as it may seem, it's better than having your dog shiver through the walk. You know shivering isn't a pleasant experience. It could also make the dog very sick. In hot weather you should carry a water bottle and portable bowl for walks more than 10-15 minutes long. On longer walks, you should give the dog water every 15 minutes. Like humans, dogs should drink water before they get thirsty, which means before their tongues start wagging. A few other things you should carry with you are: treats, to reinforce good behavior and extra bags, just in case. This cannot be overemphasized.

If you're walking your dog in a busy urban area, you should train your dog to sit and check in with you - meaning look you in the eye - before crossing the street. You should get to a point where the dog will know not to run into the street without your permission. Even then, make sure that cars stop at stoplights before crossing the street in front of them. If there is any doubt whether you'll make it across before the light changes, make eye contact with the drivers to make sure they see you. Also make sure to hold onto your leash tightly, as there are people who will run up and just steal dogs from people on sidewalks. This is obviously also a good idea in case your dog suddenly sees something it wants to chase.

One last rule of thumb is that when you're standing still with your dog on a leash, never let him or her face a different direction than you. It could see something behind you and bolt before you know what's happening. You should both be looking in the same general direction.

Learn more about this author, Eddie Brawley.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.