There’s nothing like getting out into the fresh air, stretching your legs (whether you’re on two or four) and getting those steps in! Walks are crucial for making sure your pooch is getting plenty of exercise, building good toilet habits and developing social skills around other fluffy friends. Walks should be fun and safe - for you, your dog and the people around you - so we’ve written some top tips to help you get the most out of your daily strolls.
1. Be prepared
Before you set off, make sure you’re prepared for anything and everything. Take a mobile phone, don’t forget poo bags, treats and toys for playing fetch. If you are going somewhere you don’t know, pack a map, we recommend a physical one if you’re venturing off into the countryside as the mobile coverage in some parts of the UK can be unreliable.
2. Keep your pooch in sight
If your dog doesn’t come back when you call their name, keep them on a lead. This way they can’t run off and get into trouble or harm’s way, protecting your dog, other pooches, small children and wildlife.
3. Respect other dogs
No matter how friendly and well trained your dog is, try and keep them away from other dogs who have been kept on a lead. A dog is often on a lead for a reason, so it’s best to keep to some boundaries and keep both dogs safe.
4. Respect other people
Most pooches are full of energy and eager to play or say hello, but other people aren’t always so keen on entertaining your dog, like joggers, cyclists or families with young children. Keep your dog nearby or on a lead to so they don’t bother or scare them!
5. Follow the rules
There are usually rules around where you can walk your dog, especially in parks, on nature trails and on beaches like how many dogs you can walk, whether they can be off-lead, and dog fouling. Make sure you’re up to date with the laws in your area, either by asking your local council or visiting www.doglaw.co.uk. Otherwise, you might be at risk of getting a fine from officials.
6. Make your dog identifiable
Your pooch should always wear an ID whenever you’re walking them in a public space. This means they should be wearing a collar and a tag with details of your name, full address, and postcode. You can add your phone number too, to make it easier for anyone that finds them to contact you.
8. Bag it and bin it
Stepping in dog poo is one quick way to ruin your day. Always clean up after your dog, do your bit to keep our public spaces clean and tidy so that everyone can enjoy the outdoors harmoniously. It also protects other dogs and other wildlife from potentially getting poorly from ingesting whatever your pooch leaves behind, so repeating point one - always be prepared and bring plenty of poo bags!
9. Make safety a priority
For you, your pooch, fellow walkers and their dogs as well as other wildlife. Close all gates (and check them twice), mend anything you break, take your rubbish with you and leave everything as you found it. There are lots of lovely places for you and your four-legged friends to explore, so make sure others can do the same after you, safely.
10. Have fun!
Walking with your dog is a great way to bond with them and has proven mental and physical health benefits for both you and your pooch. It’s a great way to get out and explore the countryside or coast line, spend time with friends and family and switch off from the stresses of daily life. Be mindful and conscious of others on your expeditions, but above all, have fun!
Whether you and your pup tackle long, challenging expeditions through the countryside, simply head out for relaxing strolls through the park or wander along the beach watching the waves, make sure they’re fuelled with quality dog food that provides the nutrients they need to stay strong and healthy. Harringtons Just 6 range offers irresistibly tasty and crunchy low-baked kibbles using the finest ingredients such as lamb, chicken or salmon, blended with farm grown vegetables and oils rich in vitamins and nutrients. We use simple ingredients that you know and recognise so you can feel good knowing this tasty recipe gives all the natural goodness your dog needs - with no hidden nasties!
If you’re on the lookout for more tips and tricks for taking care of your pooch, why not become a member of our Pet Club? You’ll earn points, get great advice from our range of experts, access exclusive rewards and enjoy discounts on your favourite products!