Your dog needs to get out for walks on a regular basis and if you are unable to do this for any reason, I can help. There are lots of reasons why dogs need walking; many people think that as long as their dog gets out in the yard to relieve themselves that’s enough, but the truth is that lots of behavioral problems come from lack of proper walking. One reason for this is that dogs need exercise in order to work off pent up energy (and to stay healthy, just like people). An afternoon walk can enrich your dog’s life and cut back on unwanted behaviors like inappropriate chewing, separation anxiety, digging & barking.

Besides lack of exercise, the isolation of a long day at home alone can be too much for many dogs. Dogs are pack animals and want to spend time with the pack, which in many cases is you and your family. Also, dogs are looking for a job to do as part of the pack. Consequently they’ll end up “guarding” the home by barking and patrolling and sometimes this vigilance can go to an extreme when your dog is bored and waiting for you. A walk during the day can relax your dog and curb these unwanted behaviors.

A common complaint from my dog training and dog walking clients is that their dog is difficult to walk. They may bark or pull when they see another dog or person, chase after other animals or jump up on people. Any of these behaviors can lead to a dangerous situation for you and your dog. Your dog should know how to walk calmly and sit/stay on command. These skills are especially important when waiting at an intersection or confronting someone or something which you do not want your dog to engage with. All of this is just as important for safety as it is for good manners. I can help your dog build better on-leash skills so that when you’re doing the walking, you both enjoy it instead of dreading it.