by Bridie Cavanaugh

Created on: February 27, 2008

Daily exercise is important to you, and your dog, for a number of reasons. Obviously the health benefits of a daily walk are important. Daily walks decrease stress, help maintain a healthy weight and have cardiovascular benefits for both dogs and humans. Equally important is the bond achieved by daily walks along with the opportunity to enforce training lessons and pack roles. As we stroll through the world, with our dogs at our side, it is important to keep the safety of yourself, the dogs and others in mind.

Training is the first step in a safe walk. Dogs must learn to listen to us as the "pack leaders". On, or off, leash they should walk by your side unless told otherwise. They should be trained to stop, and/or sit, at each crosswalk and wait for your approval to move forward. If off leash, they should have no doubt that "come" means "come now" and should react with the first time the command is given. Skills such as these will prevent them running in front of a car, bicycle or runner and potentially causing injury to themselves or others.

Leave It is one of the most important commands a dog can learn and is an essential command to know prior to a walk. They spot that nice leftover roast beef sandwich lying on the side of the road. Noses twitch and ears perk up. A firm "leave it" and you should be able to walk by with the sandwich untouched. On an off leash walk this command can prevent a tasty snack of decaying wildlife or even an appetizer of manure. I've also used the command for ignoring squirrels, cats and even other interesting dogs.

Equipment is also an important part of a safe walk. Dogs should be walked on a maximum of a six foot non-retractable leash. Retractable leashes, while giving the dog more room to roam, essentially provide no control and are a hazard. The rope part of the leash can be hard to see and if stretched across a sidewalk can be an unseen obstacle for others. The "stop" of retractable leashes has been known to fail allowing dogs to move into traffic or other hazardous situations. They also get wound around other dogs, and even people, when attempting a greeting.

Weather should be taken into consideration when planning a walk. During the hot days of summer you should be sure to take along extra water for yourself and your dog. Watch for signs of heat fatigue and stop and rest in the shade if necessary. During the winter keep an eye on the temperature. Some breeds, with little body fat and short fur, may require a coat or sweater while

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