Walking your dog is one of the most rewarding parts of having a dog — and one of the most chaotic. Between leash tangles, squirrels, and that one neighbor whose dog always starts something, there's a lot going on. These 10 tips will make every walk smoother, safer, and way less stressful.
1. Walk Before You Feed
Dogs do better on walks with an empty stomach. Walking right after a meal can cause bloat, especially in larger breeds. Schedule your morning walk before breakfast and your evening walk at least an hour after dinner.
2. Always Carry More Bags Than You Think You Need
The one time you bring exactly one bag is the one time your dog goes twice. Always carry at least 3 bags per walk. Keep extras in your jacket pocket, your car, and your bag. Better yet, get a dedicated dispenser so you're never caught empty-handed.
The Walk Dispenser clips to any leash and holds a full roll so you're always stocked. Pair it with The Walk Kit and you've got everything you need for every walk.
3. Let Your Dog Sniff — It's Mental Exercise
A 20-minute sniff walk is more mentally exhausting for a dog than a 45-minute brisk walk. Letting your dog sniff fire hydrants, grass patches, and lampposts is enriching and calming. Build in at least 5 minutes of dedicated sniff time per walk.
4. Vary Your Route
Dogs get bored with the same route just like we do. New smells, new sights, and new terrain keep walks interesting and engaging. Try a new neighborhood, a park, or even just the opposite direction of your usual loop once a week.
5. Pick Up Every Time... Even When No One's Watching
Dog waste left on the ground is a genuine environmental and health hazard. It carries bacteria, parasites, and viruses that can infect other dogs and humans. Always pick up, always. The right bag makes it easier — Waste Happy bags are 14 inches long and up to 300% thicker than standard bags, so you never have to dread the pickup.
6. Use a No-Pull Harness for Strong Dogs
A regular collar puts pressure on your dog's neck when they pull. A front-clip harness redirects pulling energy and is much more comfortable for both of you. Worth the investment for any dog over 30 pounds.
7. Walk in the Early Morning or Evening in Summer
Asphalt heats up fast. If it's too hot to hold your hand on the pavement for 5 seconds, it's too hot for your dog's paws. In summer, aim for walks before 9am or after 7pm.
8. Bring Water on Anything Over 20 Minutes
Dogs can't sweat and dehydrate faster than you'd expect. A collapsible silicone water bowl and a small bottle goes a long way, especially in summer or on trail walks.
9. Practice Heel Intermittently
You don't need your dog to heel the whole walk, but practicing it in short bursts builds focus and control. Ask for a 30-second heel every few minutes, then release with "free" or "go sniff." It builds a much better walking dynamic over time.
10. Build a Pre-Walk Routine
Dogs thrive on routine. A consistent pre-walk ritual - same leash spot, same cue words - signals what's coming and helps hyper dogs calm down before you even open the door. It also means you never leave without everything you need.
Speaking of which: make your setup foolproof. The Complete Setup gives you everything: Classic Box, Tissue Box, Walk Dispenser, and a bonus roll, so bags are always where you need them. Never leave home unprepared again.
Final Thought
The best walks aren't always the longest ones - they're the most consistent ones. Show up every day with the right gear and a little intention, and both you and your dog will be happier for it.
