Leash Etiquette

November 1, 2021

We all want our dogs to accompany us wherever we go. We want to take them on walks in the park, we want them to come with us to the beach. That can be hard to do, though, when there are badly-behaved dogs around. Here are a few tips on how to have a good canine companion!
Never let dogs meet on leash. Have you noticed that your dog is standoffish when he meets someone on leash, but he’s fine at the dog park? That’s because dogs feel much less comfortable meeting other dogs when they’re constrained. The best way for dogs to meet is off leash in neutral territory. Otherwise, it’s better for both dogs to mind their own business and stick with you!
Leash properly. Leash laws require that your dog remain on a 6 foot leash at all times. This means retractable leashes are a no-go. Retractable leashes have a propensity to breaking, meaning that even if you have your dog on only 6 feet of the leash, there is a huge possibility that the leash will break and suddenly you’re trying to control your dog on a 26 foot leash. If it breaks further, you now have a completely loose dog. Harnesses are also very easy to slip out of (including head harnesses). The best thing for your dog to be on is a properly fitted collar with a 6-foot leash. This can be a flat collar or a training collar (such as a martingale or a chain collar) as long as you are properly trained in how to use it.
Walk on a leash calmly. Your dog should be able to calmly walk beside you on a loose leash. It’s safest for him, you, and everyone else. Dogs who drag their owners over to other dogs might meet a dog that isn’t so keen to play. If your dog takes off after a groundhog, she can hurt her neck dragging you, you can hurt your arm being lurched, and your dog might lose the fight with that groundhog, resulting in a vet visit. It’s easiest for everyone if your dog just knows to relax and hang out at your side when you’re out in public.
For more tips on how to have a good canine citizen out and about in the world and to learn how to walk on a loose leash, contact us at (443) 926-4335 or info@limitlesscanines.com