Short Dog Walks as a Balanced Training Tool

When most people think of a tired dog, they think of throwing the ball and running free or taking a long walk. Each of these has a place. The balanced dog training method that Dog Coach teaches owners uses short walks as an important training opportunity. A shorter distance conveys higher expectations to your dog. And this can be done within a remarkably short walking distance.

Short Walks are a way to…

• • • Strengthen a relationship with your dog 
    • Ask your dog to focus on your lead
    • Ask your dog to do something he’s never done before
    • Practice walking your dog in a new way
    • Build mental stamina in your canine
    • Communicate  new, higher behavior standards to your dog

Instead of long walks to tire out your dog, focus on a mental workout for your dog. Slowing things down teaches your dog a calm state of mind. Practicing short structured walks with your dog heeling, on-leash and not pulling, can be a huge change from previous walks.

Think of a short walk as giving your dog a job to do. Dogs love to have a job, but we need to regularly give them one. A shorter walk with higher expectations can go a long way toward seeing quick changes in your dog’s behavior.

At Dog Coach the short walk is also a structured walk. Your dog is not allowed to sniff or drag you around, but has to follow your lead. Even for potty breaks you are in control. Rather than let dogs mark up and down a street you can release them to pee with a command like “Break” or “OK,” then gather up the leash when they’re done. 

If your dog is pulling, try a 180-degree turn and teach him to follow. You may need to turn on your heel every 3-4 steps to get him to pay attention. Another tactic is to back up instead of turning. Take a few steps back and when your dog yields and follows, walk forward with him at your heel. Practice regularly.

Longer walks will come, but it takes time to bond with your dog. Remember: a perfect short walk is always a great exercise to learn, regardless of your dog’s age.