04/24/2026
Why do trainers advise to walk next to the dog instead of behind? There is more to the story than the usual "becasue the pack leader is in front." I think there is some truth to this becasue the protectors of the pack would be out front scouting, but that isn't the entire reason we should be next to our dogs. I think a dog's peripheral vision may have alot to do with it. A dog cannot see you, or any guidance you are giving, if you are behind the dog. If there is a person or object moving around ahead, and you are behind your dog, your dog has no idea if you are aware of that object or person. However, if you are next to or slightly in front of your dog, the dog can see that you are looking at the concerning object or person too.
This allows the dog to know you know about the environment, and likely he will feel safer knowing you are aware. So when your dog is concerned about something, wheter in the yard or on a walk, move up within his peripheral vision to let him know you got it.
