Puppy Care Guide

Week 31 – Walking Level Check: Building Focus, Confidence & Good Manners on Leash

“A great walk isn’t just exercise — it’s communication.”

At around seven to eight months, your puppy’s curiosity and energy peak. Walks become more than bathroom breaks — they’re opportunities to strengthen trust, teach boundaries, and build confidence in the world.

1️⃣ Start with the Right Leash and Gear

Before heading out, check your walking essentials. Choose a sturdy 4–6 ft (1.5–2 m) leash that allows movement while maintaining control. Avoid retractable leashes — they reduce responsiveness and can cause injury.

A padded handle and chest-distributing harness protect growing joints and the trachea. For strong pullers, try a front-clip harness for gentle redirection.

💡 PetGo Tip: Keep a short backup leash in your car or bag for emergencies. Inspect clips and stitching regularly for safety.

2️⃣ Stay Within Your Reach

Even the most affectionate puppies can bolt toward distractions. Your goal is to teach your dog that staying near you is safest. Begin indoors with short recall and focus sessions:

Say your dog’s name once.
When they look at you, reward instantly with praise or a treat.
Repeat several short sessions daily, then practice outside with distractions.

💡 PetGo Tip: Never shout your dog’s name in frustration — it should always mean something positive and safe.

3️⃣ Walk Together — Same Direction, Same Pace

A great walk means moving together in harmony. If your puppy stiffens, barks, or hides when passing others, calmly move aside and reward relaxed behavior. Teach your dog to walk beside you — not pull or drag.

Use light leash tension as gentle feedback, never punishment. Short, regular walks are better than occasional long ones for building calm focus.

💡 PetGo Tip: Aim for two 10–20 minute structured walks daily, including relaxed sniffing breaks to let your dog decompress.

4️⃣ Make Walks a Daily Routine

Consistency builds confidence. Walks at regular times teach your dog when to expect activity and reduce anxiety. Begin in quiet areas, then gradually introduce new sounds, surfaces, and people.

Keep training upbeat — mix treats, toys, and praise. End with calm standing time so your puppy learns that walks conclude with peaceful moments.

💡 PetGo Tip: In cold Canadian winters, protect paws with balm or boots, and shorten walks when sidewalks are icy or salted.

🌿 Summary: The Path to Confident Walks

A calm, responsive walker isn’t born — they’re made through trust, repetition, and clear communication. When your dog walks near you, glances up for reassurance, and moves with ease, you’ve built a bond based on mutual respect.

💛 PetGo Reminder: Every walk teaches your dog that the world is safe and people are kind. Lead with patience, reward curiosity, and celebrate progress one step at a time.

Continue with PetGo’s Puppy Care Guide

PetGo helps every pet parent turn daily walks into meaningful moments of trust and connection.

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