Diet and exercise is important for our health just as it is for your dog. The best form of fitness and exercise is walking. Dogs of all sizes love to go for walks and you too can benefit at the same time. When you get a new puppy, one of the first things you want to do is get it accustomed to a collar and leash in order to get it used to the process of daily walks. The friendly staff at your local Rockford-area Petsmart or Petco as listed below or one closest to your home has all the supplies you need to help your pet gain the benefits of daily walks.
Once your pup is accustomed to wearing the collar or a harness and leash, proceed to introduce your pet to walking on a leash without pulling. Simply begin by walking, using a short term such as “let’s go” or “walk” and take few steps. If the puppy walks appropriately, be sure to use a lot of love and praise along with a small treat, so he knows he did well. If the puppy pulls on the leash, sits down or rolls over, just stop and try again and again until he gets the message that you are trying to convey, how to walk comfortably on a leash. Never scold or hit your puppy for inappropriate behavior. It will take a lot of patience and repetition but the puppy will get the message with positive reinforcement.
Nice leisurely walks can provide so many advantages although you can reap more benefits by getting the most out of your strolls. Of course the techniques for walking differ slightly, depending on the size of your dog. If you have a smaller dog, pick up the pace a little, just enough so that your little dogs leg’s and back can handle the stride. You might consider jogging with your larger dog for a more cardio health. Your dog will love this special bonding time with you while expending some of its inner energies. Dogs that are not exercised regularly are the ones that seem to find other unacceptable ways to have fun, ways that may be harmful for your pet.
If you are anything like me without a yard and not able to run your dog, consider taking your dog to a dog park or trail that allows dogs to run freely and unleashed in a safe environment. This is a great way for your dog to get exercise while visiting with other dogs, provided that your dog is friendly. However be sure you keep an eye on your dog to be sure that the other animals around are just as friendly. It is definitely unfortunate when your friendly pup is out there having a good time and meets up with a dog that is not quite so acceptable.
As with anything, variety is the spice of life. When going on walks, alternate different routes. Do not go to the same dog park or trail on a daily basis. Most times your pet is just happy to be with you wherever you are going but it just makes it a little more fun to change the pace and scenery each day. If you have a dog that is highly excitable prior to going for walks, expel some of those energies by playing with him for a few minutes before getting ready for the walk. Weather permitting,, you can enjoy your daily walks and their health benefits with your favorite canine buddy.
http://www.petplace.com/dogs/how-to-teach-your-puppy-to-walk-on-a-leash/page1.aspx# http://www.petplace.com/dogs/dealing-with-a-leash-pulling-dog/page1.aspx#
If you are looking for wholesome, natural and homemade treats for your favorite canine best friend, Led foot’s Pet Bakery near the Rockford area is happy to meet your needs. Check out the website at Ledfoot Bakery. Contact Susan Weitzel at 815 784-6358, Ledfoot Bakery Contact.
If you are seeking Veterinary assistance in the Rockford area, you can check out one of these at - Rockford Vet Clinics, Bellwood Vet, Rockford Veterinarians, Perryville Veterinarian , Cat Veterinarians Specialists
For all your pets needs and accessories in the Rockford area, go to your local PETCO - 6305 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 229-0184 - Petco or your local PETSMART - 6320 East State Street, Rockford, IL 61108, (815) 397-7880 - Petsmart -PETLAND, (815) 332-4200 - Petland
For many of your pet essentials, visit your local Rockford-area CVS pharmacies. There are four convenient locations - 3134 11th Street, Rockford, IL 61109, (815)398-0048 - 110 S Alpine Rd, Rockford, IL 61108 - 3718 Main Street, Rockford, IL 61103, (815)877-9620 - 2454 S. Alpine Rd., Rockford, IL 61108, (815)399-5421 - CVS Pharmacy
Take your dog to the doggy park; Rockford’s two locations are Dog Park USA - Rockford or check out this site - Rockford Dog Parks
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