As a conscientious dog owner, you work hard to fit their daily walks into your schedule. It doesn’t matter if you have to get up early or do it after the sun has gone down because it’s about what’s best for your dogs. This attitude is to be applauded, but don’t forget about safety!

A Reliable Leash and Dog Collar

You want to ensure the leash and collar are appropriate for the size and strength of your dog. The last thing you want is for him to break free and try to run across a busy street or go after another dog or a person because the leash snapped or the collar slid off. Check the state of your dog’s collar and leash regularly, inspecting them for any damage or rust on the hardware (D-ring and leash clasp) or rips in the fabric. Replace them at the first hint of possible failure. Also, avoid using variable length leads, and check your local laws. In some jurisdictions, there is a maximum allowed length of the leash. For example, city law in Los Angeles limits leash length to six feet.

Reflective Clothing

If you walk your dog in darkness or inclement weather, you owe it to yourself and your pup to stand out to drivers. One of the best ways to do this is by wearing a reflective running vest, and you may also want to invest in reflective dog clothing.

LED Lights

Not into dressing your dog in reflective clothing? Try something with an LED light. For humans, there are wearable bike and running safety lights. For dogs, Cesar recommends the Bright Light Leash & Collar because it provides an LED light to make your dog visible and position it where it can be seen. Even better for you, the light is solar powered and USB chargeable!

Comfortable Walking Shoes

When our feet hurt, so do the rest of our bodies. So take care of yourself by ensuring the shoes you wear on your dog walks are the correct size and fit — and that they are proper walking shoes, not sandals or heels. Also, ensure they have no-skid soles or a decent tread to reduce the chance of slipping and falling or off your dog suddenly pulling you off your feet. Of course, dog-walking safety isn’t just about gadgets. Changing your route will confuse anyone trying to keep tabs on you; telling someone where you’re going will alert them to help if you don’t come back, and walking with others can help deter predators. Plan and your dog walks are much more likely to be peaceful and relaxing, helping you maintain a Pack Leader’s calm, assertive energy!

Dog Walking Bag

Are you looking for a way to make dog walking more manageable and efficient? Then you need a dog walking bag! This essential piece of gear can help you carry all the supplies you need while out on a walk, and it’ll make walks much more organized and stress-free. Once you find a bag that works for you, here are some suggested items to include in your walking bag.

Emergency Card

You must always be prepared for an emergency if you’re a dog walker. That means having an emergency card with all your contact information. Suppose something happens to you while walking dogs. Someone will be able to get in touch with your clients quickly. An emergency card can also help if you get lost or stranded somewhere. Information to include on the card is your name, contact information for two people, the number of dogs you are walking, and the dogs’ names. So make sure to carry one with you whenever you’re walking dogs!

Phone

Most people don’t go anywhere without their phones these days. However, you might consider leaving the device home if you take your pup on a quick walk around the block. Having your cellular phone is essential if you need to reach emergency services or get lost. Update your contacts to include ICE (in case of emergency) contact information that EMS personnel can retrieve should anything happen to you.

Spare Leash & Collar

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Waste Bag

Carrying a waste bag for your dog should be a no-brainer. Again, even if you’re only going for a quick walk. Respect your community and neighbors and clean up after your furry friend.

Spare Leash & Collar

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Waste Bag

Carrying a waste bag for your dog should be a no-brainer. Again, even if you’re only going for a quick walk. Respect your community and neighbors and clean up after your furry friend.

Wet Wipes

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Dog Treats

Keep a small bag of your pup’s favorite treats broken into smaller pieces for training and rewards. If you walk several different dogs daily, consider carrying a few kinds of goodies.

Photo Of Dog

There might be a time when your leash or collar breaks while you’re on a walk. An extra pair in your walking bag will solve your problem quickly. Having a spare leash and collar can also be helpful if you come in contact with a stray dog.

Flashlight

A flashlight in your walking bag is helpful for a few reasons. If you start your walk at dusk and are still walking when the sun goes down, a flashlight will help you to see where you’re walking and for others to see you. If there’s an emergency and you’re lost without a cellular signal, you can use the flashlight to alert emergency responders to your location.

Clicker

If you have trained your dog to respond to a clicker device, it would be great to include one in your bag for when you are out and about for a few hours or a few days.

Immunization Records

In the case of an unfortunate incident, it would be helpful to include all updated immunization records, including rabies certification, either on your phone or printed out and kept in a plastic bag. Also, remember that some events and hotels require this information upon check-in.

Water

Some products on the market allow you to carry a water bowl for your pup. Keeping your dog properly hydrated, particularly on hot days, is essential for safety. A collapsible bowl and water bottle are two critical items to keep in your walking bag.

What safety essentials do you always take on the walk?

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A local dog park is an excellent place for many reasons; however, not all dogs will thrive in this environment. If you’re planning on bringing your pup with you when visiting friends or going on a hike, then make sure they are socialized at home first! Consider these tips before taking your pet somewhere where there may be other canines without supervision- it’ll save both parties from unwanted interactions later down the line.

Common Dog Park Rules

Park rules will vary from one place to another. These rules should be posted conspicuously near park entrances; if not, ask about them before bringing your dog to the neighborhood park. Below are some of the most common rules.

• No dogs may be left unattended.
• Dogs need to be adequately trained.
• Dog owners should keep their pets on a leash when visiting the park.
• Direct supervision is required at all times.
• Any aggressive behavior towards other dogs or people is unacceptable.
• Dog owners must clean up after their dogs.
• Don’t let your pet eat anything inside the dog park.
• Dogs over the age of six months must be spayed or neutered.
• People shouldn’t smoke while walking around a dog park.
• All dogs (including puppies) must be current on vaccinations.

What is Appropriate Dog Park Behavior?

Not all dogs are suitable for dog parks, and some aggressive canines may cause trouble if left alone in an uncontrolled environment. Socializing them in a safe space is wise. Consider the following tips before venturing out to the local dog park.

Be Calm and Friendly

No one wants to hang around a bully or obnoxious pup. Train your pet to be friendly and calm in all situations. Pet owners, park goers, and the general public will appreciate the time and attention you give to training your dog in this manner.

Not Attack Other Dogs

If your dog provokes easily, is fearful, or aggressive, the dog park is not an appropriate socializing venue. A threatening pup needs to stay home for the safety of other pets, owners, yourself, and your furry friend.

Possess Good Manners

It should go without saying; however, some pet owners think it’s cute when their pup hops into a stranger’s lap or jumps on children. This behavior is not appealing, and some people can be easily upset by this happening.

Responsive to Basic Instructions

Your dog should be able to respond to basic cues to prevent an out-of-control situation, such as coming when called, being told to sit, or being asked to leave it. If they cannot obey these basic commands, the park will need to wait until proper training occurs.

Limit Dog’s Barking

For the comfort of other park users and neighboring homes of the facility, barking should be kept at a reasonable level. Barks of joy are normal and acceptable but should still be infrequent. Once aggressive, non-stop barking begins, you should leave.

Dog Owners Should Only Bring Healthy Pets

Just as you would not send a sick child to school, only healthy dogs should be at the park. You would not want your pup to cause other puppies to get sick. Allow your pup to rest, recoup, and before you know it he will be back to his usual self.

Watch Your Pup

It may be tempting to let your dog run the park, but he’s your first responsibility while you’re at the facility. Put your phone away and keep your eyes on your pet for his safety and enjoyment. Talking to another person is a distraction if you cannot maintain visibility on your pet.. Pay attention, and react quickly!

Things To Pay Attention To

Consider these points when you plan an outing to the park. Knowing the personality and how they will react to certain situations is essential for your pet’s safety and others who will be there. The more you are aware of how your four-legged friend will respond will help you to respond accordingly.

Be Aware of Hormones

Dogs who aren’t neutered or spayed are more likely to get into trouble. Canines that aren’t fixed are usually not even allowed at dog parks.

Your Pup’s Body Language

Dogs’ ears are sensitive. Pups stay alert by having their ears perk up when excited. When content, their tails will wag, and their bodies relax. Hackles may rise if a dog is feeling aggressive. Be aware of these noticeable cues when approaching other pets or animals,, and be sure to give space.

Listen to Other Pawrents

Even though sometimes we think our dogs are good, other parents might not appreciate some of your best friend’s behaviors. Things like jumping or biting are great examples of not welcome actions. If a pet parent has expressed that your pup has done something they aren’t fond of, respect them and respond positively.

Interacting with Other Dogs

Dogs should always be supervised when playing with other furry pals. When meeting other pet owners, ask them questions about their dog. Be careful when meeting new pups because some are aggressive towards others. Sometimes it is difficult for pets to get along with other animals. Respect the owner’s wishes if they want to spend time alone with their canine.

Know Your Dog’s Personality

Dog parks can be great places for dogs to meet others, but there are some things you should consider before taking your pet.

• You may want to take your dog to a small local park before going to a bigger one. You’ll want to see how your canine reacts to other dogs.
• Avoid large groups of people when you bring your dog to a park.
• If your dog seems anxious about meeting new dogs, try a slow introduction.
• If your pet starts getting overly excited, you may want to leave the park. If he gets too excited, he may start acting aggressively toward other dogs.
• Leave the park and return another day if your furry friend gets scared or nervous.

How to Stay Safe

Dogs should be kept safe when visiting dog parks. You don’t have to hover around them the entire time, but here are some universal ground rules to get you started.

• Don’t let puppies who are too young to get vaccinated go to the dog park.
• Refrain from taking older pets to dog parks if they have trouble moving around.
• Keep your first visit short and sweet.
• Dogs are loyal pets who deserve to be treated well. When you take your dog out to play, spend quality time together.
• Dogs should always wear a leash when being walked around public areas.

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Exercise is Needed

Just because a dog is small doesn’t mean he needs less exercise, and, although breed can give an indication of the dog’s energy level, the final judgment must be made on the individual dog’s needs.

As your dog’s pack leader, you must help her to expend her energy in a productive way. For all dogs, this means a daily walk. Some dogs may require additional activities, such as running, Frisbee, or swimming, in addition to, but never replacing, the walk.

Remember that dogs are animals, and animals need to travel and discover the world. A big back yard is no substitute for a good walk. Master the walk and your dog will relate to you on a deeper level.

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A dog’s mother begins training puppies from birth. She makes them wait for food; she controls when they play and how far they travel. Adult dogs need these same rules, boundaries, and limitations from you, their pack leader when dog training.

Calm and assertive
A pack leader doesn’t project emotional or nervous energy, so neither should you. In the wild, the pack leader uses calm-assertive energy to influence how the dog interacts with his surroundings. She enforces these laws in a quiet way, as is the case when a mother picks up a puppy by the scruff of the neck if he strays outside the den.

Setting boundaries
Ownership of territory is very important. Dogs in the wild claim space by first asserting themselves in a calm and confident way, and then communicating this ownership through clear body language signals and eye contact. A dog who understands that you, as the pack leader, own the space in which he lives will respect your asserted authority while dog training.

Right timing
Waiting is another way that pack leaders assert their position. Puppies wait to eat, and adult dogs wait until the pack leader wants them to travel. Waiting is a form of psychological work for the dog. Domestication means dogs don’t need to hunt for food, but they can still work for it.

Pack leadership

Establish your position as pack leader by asking your dog to work. Take him on a walk before you feed him. And just as you don’t give affection unless your dog is in a calm-submissive state, don’t give food until your dog acts calm and submissive. Exercise will help the dog, especially a high-energy one, to achieve this state.

Know your pack
The true test of leadership is knowing your pack. I want to know my pack and what fulfills them. This is what creates balance. Then formulating a dog training plan, setting an intention, and following through is what creates even more strength in your relationship, bond, and its depth. To me, that’s respect, both of the needs of your dog and yourself.

This is what distinguishes the true pack leader from the rest. They are honest. They are real. They accept. They are in touch. They are present. They are respectful. They are balanced. And they know their pack.

In all of these ways, the pack leader in nature sets rules, boundaries, and limitations for her pack, and in doing so, nurtures her dog’s healthy state of mind.

Do you really know your pack? Tell us all about your pack in the comments.

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I have read several articles in our local paper about people witnessing a dog fight and wanting to stop the dog fight but did not know how to stop a dog fight. I am impulsive when it comes to these things and it caused me to ask what is the best thing to do when witnessing a dog fight? Is there a way to break up a dog fight? Should I try to stop a dog fight? I love animals and react without thinking about my safety and have stepped in before when I have seen a dog fight – fortunately I did not get hurt. What is your suggestion for what to do when confronted by dog fighting?

Sheila Palmer
Schenectady, NY

Cesar’s advice on how to break up a dog fight

Dear Sheila,

First, do not get rid of your instincts. There is no knowledge behind instinctual intelligence so “not thinking” is actually a good thing. In my profession, I only use “thinking” when I have to explain something to the human. With dogs, it’s all about instinct and energy.

Here’s what you need to keep in mind. You can stop a dog fight by observing body language. This is what I do with aggressive cases – stop the bad dog behavior at the very instance you see it about to escalate. But if that’s not possible, during a dog fight, once there is one occurring, stay calm and observe who or which of the two dogs is at a higher level of intensity. That’s the dog I’m going to focus on. Then you need to step in to give that dog the right touch – this means the ribcage area. The reason is that this forces the dog to open his mouth and let go of his hold on the other dog during the dog fight. It’s about timing too, so look for the right moment and then act quickly.

You can use a loud, strong voice or grunt directly at him and pull up from the back of his neck and collar – not from the top, but from the back and pull up, otherwise he can interpret this as you getting into the fight as well, and this is when the dog can turn on the human and bite him because his level of intensity is so high, he doesn’t think “oh, that’s the human.” You’re just another dog in the fight and before you know it, the dog you’re trying to defend is coming after you.

Whether it’s a big dog or little dog, the technique and method is the same. Do not scream repeatedly unless you are calling for help. Sometimes people are not going to help, so don’t expect that everyone will have your ability or good will. Most importantly, be quick, stay mindfully aware, emotionally in tune, and remain calm and assertive.

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Mastering the walk will not only make this part of your daily routine enjoyable, but also go a long way towards addressing other problem behaviors as well, because it can help your dog to see you as the Pack Leader.

Here are some solutions for dealing with dog walking problems.

1. Pulling on the walk
   This is one of the most common problems faced by Pack Leaders. Some dogs don’t want to walk; they want to run! So let them. Go for a jog, use rollerblades, or go biking with your dog to drain that excess energy before trying to address the behavior.Another powerful solution is the Pack Leader Collar. It’s likely your current collar is actually working against you. By being placed around the strongest part of your dog’s neck — the lower part — it’s actually helping your dog to pull you! Think about sled-pulling dogs; they use this part of their body to pull heavy loads behind them. Instead, the Pack Leader Collar keeps the collar at the top of the neck, giving you more control.
2. Distracted on the walk
   Some dogs like to stop and smell the roses. And then stop to smell them again and again… You can prevent this behavior by keeping the leash short (but not tight) and your dog’s head up. Maintain your calm-assertive energy and stay focused on your destination. Then allow your dog brief breaks to stop, explore, and relieve himself. These breaks are your dog’s reward for following you on the walk instead of their nose.
3. Lunging on the walk
   Are you constantly walking to the other side of the street to avoid passing other dogs or people so your dog won’t lunge at them? Corrections are key. You want to address the problem behavior quickly and immediately. The Pack Leader Collar can also help with this by keeping the collar at the most sensitive part of the neck, where he is more likely to notice the corrections.Still having trouble getting the message across to your dog? Have a friend or family member film you giving corrections. Watch your body language. First, are you reacting before your dog does? Your anticipation of the behavior may actually be causing it. Second, are you maintaining calm-assertive control (head up, shoulders back!) when giving corrections, or simply yanking your dog around?
4. Stopping in the middle of the walk
   It’s possible that your dog is overheated or overtired, so this should always be the first thing you consider: Are you asking her to go too long or in temperatures that are uncomfortable for her? Sometimes we forget that a dog’s exercise needs change as they age. It’s also possible your dog is suffering from a health issue. Consult your vet.Once you’ve ruled those causes out, one strategy for dealing with this is to give a slight sideways tug on the leash to jolt the dog back into walking. You may have to repeat it if she stops again until she gets the message to keep moving.
5. Not interested in going for a walk
   This is a common puppy problem. The little guy just decides he’d rather sit down or otherwise do his own thing. You can help encourage your dog to get up and get going by picking him up and taking him away from your home. Why? Because he is more likely to be motivated to walk back home than he is to walk away from it!

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Of course, a smart dog is just potential without a human willing to put in the time and effort to train and channel the dog’s intelligence. While all dogs are trainable, it’s important to understand your dog’s inherent abilities in order to know how to motivate him and bring out his natural intelligence.

Here is a List of the 10 Smartest Dog Breeds. Is Your Dog One of Them?

Border Collie

The Border collie is energetic, affectionate, and — of course — smart. A Border collie dog is a true working dog excelling in sheep herding, athleticism, agility, and cuddling. Border collies are also known for their “herding eye,” an intense gaze used to stare down and herd other animals.

Poodle

The poodle is the seventh most popular dog breed and for good reason. Poodles not only are very smart, but they’re also proud, active dogs, with the added benefit of being hypoallergenic. Because of their high intelligence, poodles can be easily trained to track, hunt, retrieve, and obey. In fact, poodles are the national dog of France where they were first used as retrievers.

German Shepherd

It’s no surprise that a German shepherd is the second most popular dog breed because they’re courageous, confident, and smart. They are excellent all-purpose workers and are used in a number of specialized situations as police dogs or service dogs. German shepherds don’t always give affection lightly, but they are fiercely loyal family dogs that are great with kids.

Golden Retriever

Golden retrievers are intelligent, friendly, and devoted sporting dogs. Goldens take their jobs to heart and try to be the best at what they do, whether it’s hunting, serving as a seeing-eye dog, working in search-and-rescue, or simply being a loving companion.

Doberman Pinscher

Besides strength, endurance, and speed, Doberman pinschers have the smarts necessary to retain training in order to be an in-demand police dog or war dog. There is even a bronze Doberman pinscher statue titled “Always Faithful” at the National War Dog Cemetery in Guam to honor the dogs — mostly Dobermans — that were killed in service during the Second Battle of Guam in 1944.

Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland sheepdog is basically a miniature working collie. They are playful and intelligent herding dogs that love to learn new tricks and play with kids. Shelties are affectionate and loyal with their families. But they’re also great watchdogs because they are reserved towards strangers and have a tendency to bark at people.

Labrador Retriever

Besides being intelligent, gentle, and family-friendly, Labrador retrievers are also the most popular dog breed in the United States. Because Labs want to please their Pack Leader, they are excellent guide dogs and rescue dogs.

Papillon

The papillon is an alert, friendly, and happy dog. Papillon means “butterfly” in French, and the papillon was given this name because of its butterfly-like ears. Papillons aren’t shy or aggressive and are especially fast and versatile little athletes that can be trained to do all kinds of tricks.

Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are known for their long wrinkled faces and big droopy ears, but they’re also known for being independent, inquisitive, and friendly. As far as intelligence, bloodhounds have been recognized for their determination and scenting power as far back as the third century.

Rottweiler

The Rottweiler is a loyal, loving, confident guard dog who wants to work. Because of this, Rottweilers are best suited to be service dogs, police dogs, herders, therapy dogs, devoted companions, or obedience competitors.

Whether your dog is one of the smartest breeds or not, remember that every Pack Leader can teach and train their dog with patience, consistency, and the right energy regardless of that dog’s breed or age.

If your dog is on the list, do they seem to live up to the “intelligent” reputation of their breed? If they’re not on the list, is your dog an Einstein of another kind? Let us know in the comments!

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Basically, it means command or grasp of a subject, or the state of being in control. Note, though, that mastery does not mean “being the best.” There are many people with a mastery of chess who could not beat the world champions no matter how hard they tried, although they still know enough about what they’re doing that they could beat a dozen amateurs at the same time.

Mastering the walk and leadership just mean that you are the one in control of your pack, and you understand what’s needed to keep your position as the leader. What’s great about this is that it’s personal. You don’t have to learn to lead anybody else’s dogs. You only have to know how to have mastery over your own pack.

Mastering affection
And this is where the most difficult bit of mastery comes in: mastering affection.

Exercise, discipline, affection. That’s my fulfillment formula. When you master the walk, you’ll give your dog exercise. When you master leadership, you’ll provide exercise and discipline. But what does it mean to master affection?

On the surface, it sounds like it means knowing how to give your dog affection by giving what he or she likes most. Maybe it’s belly rubs, or praise, or treats. But figure out which one your dog responds to, and you’ve mastered affection, right?

Wrong.

Timing and consistency
See, when it comes to mastering affection there are really two parts. One part is mastering not how but when to give your dogs affection. But the other, harder, part is mastering yourself and controlling your need to constantly give affection.

I get asked a lot, “What is the one bit of advice you would give to dog owners everywhere?” I’ve been asked this question in every country I’ve ever visited, and in almost every interview I’ve ever given. And my response is always similar: “Understand that dog psychology is different than human psychology. Dogs are not human children, and they have different needs. Dogs aren’t looking for love and acceptance. They’re looking for leadership and protection.”

And, in my travels around the world, the places where I find the most unbalanced, misbehaved, and neurotic dogs are those where people give them nothing but affection, affection, affection.

Your dog needs more than affection
You’d be surprised how often people seem confused, or even offended, when I tell them that they can’t give their dogs constant affection, and I understand how it can be hard. Dogs are cute, humans are programed to love cute things, and if you ask most people how dogs look at us, the words “unconditional love” come up constantly.

But here’s where the problem comes in. If you treat your dogs like human children and give them affection under those conditions, you’re going to fail not only at mastering affection, but at mastering leadership, because you’re going to do more harm than good to your dog.

If a human child gets scared by a loud noise, there’s nothing better or more soothing than a hug from a parent and words telling them that everything is okay. That’s what human children respond to, and it works.

But if a dog gets scared by a loud noise, then there’s nothing worse you can do than give them affection. That’s because dogs don’t accept affection as encouragement. They accept it as reward, but only for what they’re doing right now. Comfort a frightened dog, and you’ve just rewarded them for being frightened.

Greet an excited dog with affection when you come home, and you’ll get a hyperactive, uncontrollable dog.

Dogs have different needs than children
Dogs are incredibly intelligent, empathetic creatures, but they just don’t think the same way that we do. They live by instincts, and their instincts are geared toward survival. Over time, dogs learn that doing something that got a positive result is worth doing again and again — and to our dogs, affection is a positive result.

So, in order to master affection, we need to learn two things. The first is what our dog considers to be affection. But the second, and most important, part is to learn when to give our dogs affection. In order to do this, we need to fight our human instincts to give affection when we’re feeling sorry for the dog, and instead focus on only giving affection when the dog is showing a behavior that we want; when the dog is calm and submissive.

Without mastering this, you can’t really master leadership, and without mastering leadership you can’t master the walk. So this lesson really is the most important one. Master affection by mastering yourself first, then remember that a true leader provides the pack with direction and protection.

Affection comes last, and your dog will thank you for that, because they’ll be fulfilled by feeling that they’ve actually earned it.

Stay calm, and be the master!

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