Although February brings National Walk Your Dog Day, the weather in Columbus has been so cold it feels more like Keep Your Dog Inside Month.

This past weekend I saw lots of folks out enjoying a walk with their dog.  The snow has melted, the salt has rinsed away and it was finally above 45 degrees!  Actually, I think I saw more dogs enjoying the walks than humans enjoying walks.  It seems lot of dogs had pent up energy and had forgotten to walk nicely.

There are a number of things we should consider as we get back to our regular dog walking routine:

Do you have a 2018 dog tag on your dog’s collar?

Have you checked your walking equipment?  Make sure the collar fits and the leash is not worn thin.  If you use a retractable leash, check the entire length to make sure it’s not frayed.

Is it time for new walking equipment?  Should you consider a harness, Gentle Leader or Halti?

Are there “mean” dogs on your walking route? You might want to get a can of PetSafe SprayShield.  It’s a citronella spray that distracts an attacking dog.

Here are some other tips for walking your dog correctly from #GregKnowsDogs:

• Never let your dog walk in front of you so you will be viewed as the pack leader.
• Using a 6’ leash allows you better control of your dog.
• Let your dog explore and sniff around.
• Always pick up your dog poop.
• Make sure to bring plenty of water for your dog.
• Watch out for ice in the winter (and salt) and hot pavements in the summer.
• Wear reflective gear if you are walking your dog at night.

I recommend walks to heel, not just a walk with minimal pulling.  Call me at 614-859-0612 if you need help getting your pooch to walk nicely by your side.  I also recommend you start with short, focused walks as you get back into your routine.  Happy trails and tails!