Structured Walks
What is a structured walk?
A structured walk is when your dog walks calmly by your side, with a relaxed leash. No pulling, lunging or reactivity. Your dog is focused on you and where you’re walking.
Having your dog follow you on a walk strengthens the bond between you and reassures them that you are in control of your environment and puts them at ease.
The structured walk is one of the best ways to make your pet feel safe and secure in public.
Shouldn't the walk be fun?
Lack of structure during a walk can lead to an anxious or even aggressive dog.
Structured walks fulfill their need to complete a task and follow a leader, stimulating their minds and draining their energy.
What about potty time?
Some of the walk is dedicated to potty time and being allowed to explore a little bit. Exploring, framed by structure, will raise your dogs confidence in new situations. Being allowed to roam and sniff excessively encourages prey drive. This distances your dog form you and can lead to behavior issues in time.
When you give your dog guidelines to follow and reward them for following those guidelines, you are boosting their confidence in themselves and ensuring they trust you to get them through anything that can seem scary or dangerous to them.
You’ll notice them looking to you for guidance in other areas they’re unsure of resulting in a calm and responsive dog that will trust you in all situations.
