Dec 19, 20243 min read

Stress-Free Strolls: How to Enjoy Walks with Your Dog

Hello hello, Pet Parents! Carlos here. Many of you dream of those picture-perfect walks: your pup trotting happily by your side, calmly exploring the world, while you both enjoy the fresh air. Sounds lovely, right?

The good news is that enjoyable, stress-free walks are absolutely possible! Let’s explore how you can turn walking your dog into a bonding experience you both look forward to.

1. Why Walks Can Be Stressful

Walking your dog can sometimes feel more like a tug-of-war or a whirlwind of distractions. Here are some common challenges:

Pulling on the Leash: Your dog is eager to explore everything at once.
Reactivity to Triggers: Other dogs, squirrels, or bikes can be overwhelming for some pups.
Over-Excitement or Anxiety: Your dog might be too excited to focus or too nervous to relax.

These challenges are common but manageable with training, patience, and the right approach.

2. Steps to Enjoy Stress-Free Walks

1. Choose the Right Gear

Use a front-clip harness or no-pull harness to discourage pulling and give you better control. Avoid retractable leashes, as they can encourage pulling and make control harder.

2. Teach Loose Leash Walking

Start in a low-distraction area like your backyard.
Hold the leash in one hand and treats in the other.
Reward your dog for walking beside you with a loose leash. If they pull, stop moving and wait for the leash to relax before continuing.

3. Use Engagement Cues

Teach cues like “look at me” or “watch” to keep your dog’s focus on you, especially when distractions arise.

4. Incorporate Sniff Breaks

Dogs explore the world through their nose, and allowing them time to sniff can make walks more enjoyable for them. Designate parts of the walk as “sniff time,” where your dog can roam within the leash’s length.

5. Build Positive Associations

If your dog is reactive to certain triggers (like other dogs or bikes), work on desensitization:

Start at a distance where your dog feels calm.
Reward them with treats for staying relaxed as the trigger appears.
Gradually decrease the distance over time.

3. Making Walks Fun for You and Your Dog

Incorporate Training on Walks

Use walks as an opportunity to practice cues like “sit,” “stay,” or “leave it.” This keeps your dog engaged and reinforces good behavior.

Change Up the Routine

Explore new routes, parks, or trails to keep things exciting for both you and your dog.

Walks Short and Sweet

It’s okay to have shorter walks if your dog is tired, nervous, or learning. Quality matters more than quantity.

4. Common Concerns (and Solutions)

“My Dog Pulls Constantly!”

Solution: Practice stopping every time they pull. Reward them for walking with a loose leash, and be consistent.

“My Dog Gets Distracted by Everything.”

Solution: Start in a low-distraction area and gradually increase challenges. Use high-value treats to maintain their focus.

“Walks Stress Me Out.”

Solution: Take it slow and focus on small wins. If needed, start with short sessions to build confidence for both you and your dog.

5. The Benefits of Stress-Free Walks

A calm, enjoyable walk strengthens your bond with your dog, provides physical and mental stimulation, and helps them build confidence in the world around them. It’s not just exercise—it’s a partnership.

Final Thoughts

Pet parents, walking your dog should be a time to connect, explore, and enjoy each other’s company. With the right tools and training, you can turn stressful walks into peaceful strolls that both you and your pup look forward to.

Have questions or need help with leash training or walking challenges? Reach out—I’m here to support you every step of the way!

F. Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA

Carlos is head trainer at Canine High School in Long Beach CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He is responsible for creating the School's Dog Training System, Curriculum and Philosophy. In addition to educating his canine students and their human parents, he runs a teaching school that offers apprenticeship and internship programs for aspiring professional dog trainers. He is a Certified Mentor Trainer for several dog training schools and holds certifications with the IAABC and the CCPDT. He lives in Long Beach CA in a little house by the beach with his human, his three dogs GoGo, Kiba, Choji and a sassy cat, Habibti.