Walking A Dog - Focus Is The Principal Thing!

When you are on your daily walks with your dog - or in my case, it's runs - your dog needs to be your primary focus.

Of course you need to be aware of your surroundings. But if your friend says "hello" to you, and your dog wants to say "hi" to her dog, do NOT answer her until your dog is under control.

Dogs learn very quickly to take advantage of any situation where you're not paying attention. Two dogs trying to play with each other on leash is really not something you want to be in the middle of!

For example, this morning I was running Gatsby when my neighbor walked by with her two Shelties. He REALLY loves them! And it was very hard on him when they gave him an invitation to play.

My neighbor said "hello." I did not even look at her or respond until Gatsby was completely under control again. I kept my eyes on him.

So if you are worried about being rude, explain to people later. When you are walking a dog, your focus is the principal thing.

Rena Murray
DogWhisperWoman