10/17/2022
Good morning Austin!
The weather is finally getting colder, and what better time to get in some quality autumn walks with Fido? After a summer of staying inside from the heat, your dog is probably just as excited as mine to frolick in this awesome weather. We've got open availability (including new evening appointment times) for clients here at Joy Dog training, so if your furry bff needs some help with their leash manners (or just manners in general, gotta get ready for thanksgiving guests!) please visit our website joydogtraining.net to get your dog ready for pumpkin spice season!
In the meantime, here's my favorite tips for walking your dog in the colder weather:
-Treats! always have a treat pouch on walks. reward your dog for engaging with you on your walk. There's a lot of exciting stuff outside, so let them know you appreciate their attention.
-practice your zen: Spend a few minutes before the walk putting your dog on place or practicing obedience training, this will calm them down so the two of you are set up for a successful walk.
-let them sniff: If you aren't practicing a heel on your walk, let your dog stop and sniff more. Dogs use 1/3 of their brains just on sniffing, so letting them smell exercises their brain as well as their body.
-structure part of your walk: Have your dog heel (or work on teaching them) for part of your walk. This brings structure and mental stimulation to the walk.
Remember, this is your dog's favorite part of the day, so enjoy your time together! They've been waiting all summer to take long walks with you. I can't wait to help you train your dog to go on awesome walks with you, so be sure to reach out if Fido needs some help with leash manners. Have a great day Austin, tell you dog I said hi! (pictured below is my dog crunching on a pumpkin!)