January Is Walk Your Dog Month: Here’s How to Do It Right

Some winter days, dog walks can feel like more of a chore than a good time. That’s kind of the point behind January’s designation as Walk Your Dog Month. During these coldest and shortest days of the year, we all need an excuse to jazz up the daily stroll with the pup and get outside regularly with our pets (and it’s a great New Year’s resolution, too).

We’ve got some ideas to help reinvigorate your routines and focus on good dog-walking behaviors, along with some great gear to make your walks healthy, fun, and safe. And when you need them, don’t forget Rover’s team of professional dog walkers too.

Dog Walking Tips for Walk Your Dog Month

Be the pack leader. Be in charge when you walk your dog. This month while walking your dog, remember to use confident body language—head up, shoulders back—and don’t let your dog walk in front of you. Your dog should walk beside you or slightly behind. If your dog does pull ahead, shouting won’t get them to return to your side. Instead, reinforce good behavior by rewarding your doggo with a treat when they’re walking by your side to keep them in stride with you—and consider a sturdy, no-pull harness to help discourage pulling.

Choose the right leash. Many of us live in cities and neighborhoods where leashes are an absolute must. Choose the right one for you and your dog and your specific circumstances to set you up right for positive walking experiences. There are many types of leashes (think multi-dog leashes, hands-free leashes, and good old-fashioned heavy-duty nylon styles)—the one that’s best for you is the one you feel most comfortable holding.

Practice leash lessons. Whichever type of leash you use, keep it short, but not too tight. Your dog will be discouraged from bolting, dawdling, or wandering, and you can maintain close communication and control. Have a serial puller? There are lots of safe products on the market to help you train your dog not to pull. Until your dog knows how to walk without pulling, view walks as training sessions, and keep them short, frequent, and low stress. Again, reward your dog with treats when they stay by your side.

Bring the necessities. Make the walk pleasant for you and your dog, this month and any month. Always carry bags for cleaning up and disposing of doggie poop—leaving dog waste is not only a health hazard, but in many cities, it’s a code violation (plus, it’s just plain rude). Don’t forget to hydrate by carrying water for yourself and your dog, especially in warmer weather, and be sure to pack your dog’s favorite bite-size treats for rewarding good behavior away from home.

Change it up. To make walks more fun for you and your dog, rove a little—travel off the beaten path by taking your dog on different routes, going to cool places like the dog park or a friend’s house, and taking walks with buddies—borrowing a friend’s dog or asking another owner to join you on your walk.

Know how far to go. How much walking time is enough for your dog? This is a decision you’ll make based on your dog’s breed, age, physical condition, and time of year. Dogs are most sensitive to exertion at the beginning and end stages of their lives, but they will give you clues as to whether they are comfortable, ready to head home, or up for a few more laps. If you have any questions about your dog’s condition and ability, check in with your vet.

Challenge yourself during Walk Your Dog Month: Train your dog to walk on a leash with the kids. Learn the basics with our article on training dogs and kids to walk together.

However you do it, walking your dog—this month and year-round—is one of the easiest ways to bond with your pet and get the mutual benefit of exercise—above all, we hope you enjoy the time together!