As the weather turns cooler, there seems to be even more dogs enjoying a romp in the park. The cool air brings a new sense of vitality and this is arguably the best dog walking weather you can get. Sitting and watching the dogs all interact is an activity that I find particularly pleasant. The picture changes dramatically when we see dogs romping, or even just strolling, along the sidewalk totally un-restrained. While, as I mentioned, I love to see dogs enjoy themselves in a park like setting, seeing dogs off lead near roads makes me shake my head in amazement.
Keep in mind that the best, smartest, cleverest dog that you have ever met…Lassie…has about the same comprehension as a 3-year-old child. While dogs have often thought to age in year’s approx. 7 to our 1, this is a better guideline for their physical aging. If you imagine a 3-year-old child, they do comprehend a lot of what is going on around them. They seem to do a great job at putting on their pajamas and can count up to 20. Consider now if you would let your 3-year-old child walk unattended along a busy street. Most of us would prefer to hold the child's hand, just in case they dart out at an in appropriate time.
Now, lets take a look at the liberties we give to our dogs. It is not uncommon to see dogs strolling along beside their owners on a side street, or even on a busy downtown street, without their leads. They seem to be perfectly in control and it is obvious that their owner has put in plenty of time training them. In fact, to the average passerby, they seem to make quite an impressive team.
As impressive as it may appear, it is never a good idea. If you truly care for your dog, attaching his lead in these situations is the kindest thing you can do. Many people will find it interesting that many professional dog trainers have their dogs on a lead while in busy areas. Sure, these dogs have formal obedience training, often do tricks and agility and some even work in television and film. However, the trainers are quite aware of the statistics. One of the highest causes of death in dog is hit by car. Simple. Use a leash and cut down on this statistic. Never let your ego get in the way of your dog’s safety.
While on the topic of leashed walks, be careful of the retractable leads. These leads are very popular and for good reason. They give your dog more freedom, more chance to explore the route to the park and all without a tangled mess. Be aware of how far away from the road you are, and how far the lead will pull out. All it takes is a squirrel (or a floating leaf!) across the road to distract your dog. He darts forward and the leash allows him access to the roadway.
The best way to enjoy your dog walk is to find a park that is close to your house. This way you can walk there with your dog on lead and practice your training. Have him heel along the sidewalk and sit when you come to the curbs. Once you get into the park, well away from any traffic, you can let him loose to play with his friends. If you have problems with him coming when called you can put him on a long line. If you take your retractable lead with you, this is the ideal time to use it. Or better yet, enroll him into a dog class that will teach him a reliable recall. Then you can walk him back home on his lead, again practicing the words that he knows. This way you will give him his physical workout, and his mental work out.
So, enjoy the fall weather. Get out to those parks and shuffle through the crunchy leaves. Toss a ball and have fun. It will be winter before you know it!
