Avoid These Mistakes When Walking Your Small Dog

Walking your small dog may look easy. Many pet parents believe that it is about putting on the leash and taking the dog outside but walking a small dog need to more care and attention than most people think like.
Small dogs are more delicate than big dogs as their short legs and smaller bodies make them face different challenges during the walks. So making simple mistakes while walking them can affect their health and also their behavior.
Some dog habits during walks create problems that most small dog owners are unaware of, so knowing these mistakes will help you, at best, avoid them to keep your little dog healthy and happy on every walk.

One of the most common mistakes people make is using the wrong leash or harness. A thin collar around the neck of a small dog can harm the throat. Small breeds like Shih Tzu or Chihuahua have very sensitive windpipes. A collar that pulls on the neck can cause cough or even breathing problems.
The better choice is a soft harness that goes around the chest and back. A harness spreads the pressure across the body so your dog can walk easily without pain. This also makes it easier for you to control the dog without pulling too hard.
When buying a harness make sure it is the right size. If it is too loose the dog can slip out. If it is too tight the dog will feel pain. Choosing carefully will make every walk safer and calmer.
Unlike big dogs, small dog get tired quickly. Because they have short legs, they need to take more steps to move the same length. They will be spent if they walk too fast or too long. This leads to the dog hating walks and the dog may begin to become resistant.
Some owners forget that walking should also match the dog’s age and health. A senior small dog cannot walk as long as a young puppy. Forcing them to continue walking when tired can cause pain in bones and joints.
The best way is to allow your small dog to walk at their pace. Shorter walks are better than one long walk. This keeps them happy and also keeps their energy balanced throughout the day.
Another common mistake is taking small dogs near busy traffic without thinking of their size. Small dogs are harder for car drivers or bike riders to notice. If the leash is too long the dog may suddenly run into the road which is very risky.
Your dog may also feel nervous near loud traffic sounds. Trucks, honking horns and crowds can make them scared. A frightened dog may pull strongly on the leash and this can injure them.
It is safer to choose quieter lanes, parks or open areas for walking. Holding the leash short and close helps protect the dog when crossing a road. Planning safe walking spots is one of the best ways to keep your small dog away from danger.

Walking is not just for exercise. It is also the time when dogs relieve themselves. Sometimes owners walk their small dog quickly without giving them time to sniff or toilet properly which makes them uncomfortable and they may misbehave while going back home.
Small dogs also need breaks more often because their legs are short. Stopping for a short rest will make them tire soon.
Walking slowly with pauses also strengthens the bond between you and your dog and the walk should feel like a shared happy time and not like a strict routine.

A big mistake is thinking small dogs do not need training during walks. Owners often pick them up when they misbehave instead of correcting them so over the time the dog may bark too much or refuse to walk on leash.
Small dogs also need social contact. If you never allow them to meet other dogs they can become shy or aggressive. Walks are the time to teach good behavior and social skills.
Slowly your small dog will learn how to walk nicely by your side and also feel confident when meeting new people and pets.
Walking your small dog the right way is very important. Mistakes like using the wrong collar, rushing the walk, choosing unsafe places, ignoring breaks or skipping training can harm your pet in the long run. When you walk carefully and pay attention to their needs the dog will stay healthy and joyful. The walk will then become a favorite part of the day for both.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the 5 second rule of walking dogs?
   The 5 second rule states that the owner has to check the pavement's temperature by keeping their hand on it for five seconds and if it's too hot to bare then do not take your dog for walk.
2. Should one bring a water bottle for the dog on walk?
   Yes, it is better to carry one or two water bottles for your dog walk.
3. How long should a walk be for a small dog?
   A ten-minute walk should be enough for a small dog.