At Kim's K-9, we appreciate the unique needs of our pups when it comes to their daily walks! We believe that a one-size-fits-all approach, such as insisting on a rigid heel position at all times, doesn't always cater to the diverse needs of our pups. Instead, we think it's important to change how we walk based on where we are and what's happening around us! We know that different walks have different purposes, and each one helps our dogs in its own way!
Keep reading to find out more about the kinds of walks we train dogs on here at Kim's K-9 and how they can make your pup happier and healthier!
Types of Walks:
Loose Leash Walks
When we take our dogs for walks around the neighborhood or in public places, we like to let them have a bit of freedom! So instead of keeping the leash tight and making them walk right by our side all the time, we train them to walk with a loose leash. This means they can sniff and explore, but they still have to stay close and keep an eye on us!
Our training helps dogs understand this balance. They learn that they can wander a bit, but they need to stay connected to us. This way, pups (and their humans) can enjoy their walks more! They get to sniff around and take in the world around them, but they also know we're there to keep them safe. It's all about finding the right mix of freedom and control to make walks enjoyable for both dogs and their owners!
Heel Walks
Sometimes, when we're out with our pups, we need them right by our side. Like when we're in a crowded store or there's a stroller coming our way. In these situations, having complete control over them is super important.
In our training programs, we teach pups how to perform a "heel" walk for these situations! We train our dogs to walk right beside us on our left side when they hear "heel," and to sit automatically when we stop. This keeps dogs close and out of the way, making it easier for us to move around safely!
Don't worry, heel walks aren't a substitute for our everyday loose leash walks. Instead, we incorporate a little bit of heel into our daily routine to keep our pups' skills sharp! By practicing regularly, we ensure that our dogs remember how to behave in various situations. This way, when we need them to walk calmly and closely by our side, they're ready to do so without hesitation!
Sniffaris
When it's time to take our pups on hikes or help them relax and unwind, we recommend what we call a "sniffari"! These walks are all about letting our pups lead the way with their noses! They get to sniff around and explore, which helps them let go of any built-up stress and get in touch with behaviors that come naturally to them!
We recommend using a harness and long line during sniffaris to help pups differentiate between these leisurely walks and those requiring more of their attention. It's also an excellent opportunity to practice recall training in a real-world setting!
Off-Leash Walks
In addition to loose leash walks, heel walks, and sniffaris, we also use off-leash walks for pups who have mastered their recall training and show excellent behavior on-leash first! These walks provide the ultimate freedom for pups to explore and enjoy their surroundings without the constraints of a leash! Off-leash walks are the perfect step-up from sniffaris, where your pup can roam freely and interact with the environment in a natural way!
To ensure your dog is ready for off-leash adventures, we require all pups to pass the Canine Good Citizen test prior to enrolling into an off-leash training program using an e-collar! This ensures that you and your pup have clear communication on-leash, prior to communicating with them off-leash! This training emphasizes reliable recall, attention to their handler, and appropriate social interactions, ensuring that each pup is well-prepared for safe and enjoyable off-leash experiences. Our trainers work with you and your pup to master these skills, providing the confidence needed to let your pup roam freely while staying under control!
At Kim's K-9, we believe that incorporating a variety of walks into your routine is essential for promoting your pup's health and happiness. By understanding the different purposes behind loose leash walks, heel walks, sniffaris, and off-leash walks, you can ensure that each outing contributes positively to your pup's well-being! Join us in embracing the diversity of walks and fostering stronger bonds with our furry family members.
Ready to enhance your pup's walking experience? Join us at Kim's K-9 to explore the various walks tailored to meet your furry friend's needs. Whether you're interested in our training programs or daycare, we're here to help you create memorable experiences for you and your canine companion!
