How To Keep Your Dog Calm On A Walk

Written and verified by the lawyer Francisco María García

Last update: 21 December, 2022

Going for a walk is one of a dog’s most favorite activities. This is why many dogs get a bit hyperactive while they are out for a walk, or even when they realize that their owners will be taking them out for one. In this article, we’ll give you some advice about how to keep your dog calm on a walk so they can have an enjoyable experience and stay healthy.

If your dog is still a puppy, you’ll have an easier time training them how to behave. However, there are basic things such as good socialization from a young age, not tugging on the leash, and not letting them get too excited when it’s time to go out for a walk.

Why It’s Important to Keep Your Dog Calm On A Walk

Although pets can walk and run easily, dogs need to learn how to walk correctly with their owner. If your dog tugs too much on the leash, they can injure themselves and even their owner. Dogs that can’t stay calm or chase after small animals can cause accidents.

The best thing to do is to try and train your dog while they’re still a puppy. In the first months of life, dogs have a much more moldable personality, and it’s that the moment of their lives, they form the foundation of their behavior, which is the right moment for training and socialization.

However, puppies are still developing and their immune system is not quite at full strength yet. Therefore, your first walks outside of the house should only happen after their first rounds of vaccinations and deworming.

That being said, training your dog should start as soon as they step their paws into their new home. You won’t be able to take them for a walk or teach them basic obedience, but you can teach them the rules of the house. It’s also a good idea to provide your dog with some stimulating exercises with them to develop them physically, cognitively, and emotionally.

Keeping Your Dog Calm On A Walk

Before going out to exercise with your dog, you need to make sure you have the right equipment. There are many different types of leash, collar, and harnesses, and it’s important that you work out which is most appropriate for your dog.

Using a harness is the best option for a puppy. That way you’ll avoid hurting their neck or interfering with their breathing.

Don’t Overexcite Them Before Going Out

If you want your dog to remain calm on a walk, you mustn’t overexcite them before leaving the house. Dog’s are very intelligent and can associate habits, words, or sounds with going on a walk. For example, many dogs associate it with the words “come, let’s go bye-bye” or even when their owners change clothes.

Many people find it amusing when their dog gets hyperactive just before they go out for a walk. However, laughing, applauding, or reward this sort of response will over further reinforce negative behaviours. You’ll just make it more likely for your dog to overexcite themselves before going for a walk.

When you call your dog for a walk, act calmly and simply as you call their name. When they come to you, tell them to sit, and put the collar and leash on them calmly. Remember, the more noise you make, the less likely your dog is going to be calm.

Controlling Your Own Walking

When you go out for a walk, you should be completely focused on walking your dog. If you act pressured, stressed, or nervous, your dog will notice it and probably act the same while you’re out on the walk.

If you don’t want your dog to run or pull on the leash, then you have to control the way you walk with your dog. So, avoid tugging on the leash, let them greet other dogs, and let them smell trees. You should be patient, let them get to know their surroundings, and go to the bathroom on their own time.

Walk your dog calmly, confidently, and relaxed. Otherwise, you’ll transmit some rushed or nervous energies to your pet. When they sense your confidence, they’ll also walk calmly.

Never Use a Choke Chain

Choke chains are not useful for training your dog to go on a walk correctly. The only thing they achieve is hurting your dog and putting their health at risk.

Reward Your Dog’s Positive Behaviour

Learning to walk correctly is part of your dog’s training and it’s important to reward them as they learn. By using positive reinforcement, you can have them develop good habits and improve their cognitive skills.

Socializing Your Dog

Dogs that don’t socialize enough usually react too exaggerated upon seeing other dogs, cats, or other animals. If you want to keep your dog calm while going out for a walk, you need to have them socialize while they’re still a puppy. this process will teach them to relate positively with other dogs or cats, and how to share their territory.