Walkies
You are here:First months at home
Going on your first ‘walkies’ with your new puppy will be a memorable experience for you both. However, there are a few important steps to follow before they explore the big outdoors. Our guidance and tips will help make this a positive and enjoyable moment so hopefully ‘walkies’ will become the highlight of their day.
WHEN CAN WE GO ON OUR FIRST WALK?
Your vet will be best place to advise when you can go on your first walk together. Generally this is a few weeks after your pup has had their second vaccination to ensure they are protected from diseases.
HOW TO PREPARE FOR WALKIES!
Leading up to their first walk you can take your pup on some socialisation walks. This is where you are either holding your pup or they are in a carrier on a short route outside. This will help get them used to the noises, views and smells of the great outdoors. Make sure your pup is secure before you set off so they can’t wriggle out!
Allowing your puppy to get used to their harness/collar/lead is also a good step in preparation. Begin by allowing your puppy to sniff their new equipment, then reward. Over the coming days allow them to wear their harness/collar/lead around the house for a few minutes at a time whilst constantly praising and rewarding. Your puppy will likely resist to begin with whilst they are getting used to this new experience, it won’t be long and they’ll know that the lead = walkies!
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I WALK MY PUPPY?
Puppies need shorter walks to start with; check with your vet as they will be able to give you the best information on how to build up their walks to avoid too much stress on their growing joints. As a general rule, softer ground has less impact on your dog’s joints, plus a play around the local park is always high on your four-legged friends agenda.
TOP TIP: Be sure to leave an hour either side of eating before going for a walk to avoid the risk of bloat.
FOR MORE INFORMATION READ OUR ARTICLE ON TOP TIPS FOR WALKING. THIS INCLUDES LEAD TRAINING, WHEN TO WALK AND MAKING YOUR DOG COMFORTABLE OUTSIDE FOR PLENTY OF HAPPY WALKIES!
