Is walking your dog more complex than you realize? Consider questions like: Why are daily walks important to your dog? What are your motives? Who is the priority on the walk? Where should you walk? How do you remain responsible?

Consider the wolf pack (our dogs’ DNA is almost identical); they faithfully follow their leader when they leave their den. Our dogs need to do the same. Although exercise needs can vary between breeds, walking daily will not only create a much happier dog, but a more natural connection between owners and pets. Playing with your dog can be great fun, but it will not replace the benefits of every day walks.

So why do so many dog owners avoid walking? I’m sure that if I had all your reasons, we’d have a very creative list! At least one hour a day is recommended, but any effort made with your dogs can benefit both of you.

Many of you were raised my loving parents who took care of your physical needs but left you feeling unloved and misunderstood. Ask yourself, “What is my motive in walking my dog?” “Am I just doing my duty?” “Am I using my dog as an excuse to get my own exercise and dragging ‘him’ along to suit my own personal agenda?” “Am I leaving my dogs off leash and allowing them to wreak havoc with other dog walkers in the area?” If so… you may be missing out on a very special part of pet owning… the real interaction between dog and human.

I do a lot of dog sitting for my clients; and I find the daily walk is the main focus of my stay. Walking dogs that are yanking my arm isn’t fun. I need to carefully consider letting them off leash too, as the odds are they won’t come when they’re called. But once I establish myself as their respected leader, there is such joy in watching the connection that quickly builds between us. Suddenly the walk becomes a team effort and a pleasure.

Training isn’t about obedience; it’s about establishing leadership in a way that your dogs will understand. I’ve found that dogs will do anything for a leader they respect. Imagine the benefits to your own life if you become such a leader! Walks become an enjoyable occurrence between friends. You can head down town (if city laws allow it), or out to the hills. Your dog can be trusted off lead or on. You become a responsible pet owner whom others don’t mind meeting on their own walks. “Man’s best friend” again teaches us that in giving we richly receive back.

Getting to this place is not as difficult as it sounds. A shift in leadership (and maybe a little help from a good trainer) can go a long way. People are annoyed with poorly behaved dogs; yet your dogs need their walks. So lead your dogs on your daily walks; earn both their respect and your community’s.