Tips for a successful first walk

Expert approved

Nick Jones

Dog Behaviourist and Dog Expert Witness

Read it in 4 minutes

We're on hand with Petplan’s behaviourist, Nick Jones, to put together advice for setting off on your dog's very first walk. These tips will help ensure you're not leaving home with an overly excited pup, keeping your dog happy and safe when walking in public.

Before leaving home you'll want to ensure you have a good strong lead and that the body harness or collar is fitted well. Young dogs can be a little unpredictable and you don't want your pup to be able to wriggle free!

Follow the below steps with the aim of keeping your dog controlled inside until given permission to join you outside.

Open the door slightly and then close it, teaching your dog not to rush through an open door. Repeat this a few times being careful not to catch the dogs’ nose!
Use the "wait" command while you move into the open doorway filling the space with your body
Now slowly step outside, stopping just outside the doorway
Wait for about 5 seconds. Step back in if you need to prevent your dog from following you outside.
Once your pup is calm and waiting nicely you can invite them to join you outside and continue on your walk.

These tips will not only help set the scene for a calm walk ahead but they will create great behaviours for your dog as he starts to explore the outdoors.

Nick Jones MA

Petplan Behaviourist Expert

When it comes to pet behaviour, you'll go far to find anyone more qualified than Nick Jones. Nick has been a dog behaviourist for over 20 years, he has a Masters in Canine Behaviour and Training and is a full member of the Canine and Feline Behaviour Association. He also supports UK legal cases as a Dog Expert Witness.

Puppy training, dog recall, seperation anxiety, settling a new kitten - these are just a few of the topics that Nick has accurately co-written for you.

Find out more about Nick

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