Bringing a new puppy home is an exciting and joyous experience for any pet owner. However, many new dog owners often question whether walking their furry friend outside is safe. So before attaching the adjustable harness to your furry friend, here’s everything you need to know about when to walk your puppy outside and how to do it safely.
The Relationship Between Your Puppy’s Age and Outside Walking
Your puppy’s age determines when it is safe to take them outside for their first walk. Generally, puppies should only be taken outside after their first vaccinations. Typically, this happens between 6 to 8 weeks of age.
Vaccinations protect your puppy from serious illnesses such as parvovirus and distemper, which can be fatal for your furry friend. After your puppy has received their vaccinations, you can take them outside for short walks to help them socialise and get some exercise.
Things to Remember When Walking Your Puppy Outside
Increase the Duration and Intensity of Walks Gradually
Puppies have delicate and developing bones and joints that need time to adjust to the stress of walking and running. A good rule of thumb is to start with a 5-minute walk and gradually increase it by 5 minutes each week. This will help your puppy build their endurance and prevent injuries.
Consider Your Puppy’s Size and Breed
Smaller breeds like Chihuahuas and Toy Poodles have delicate bones and joints that are more susceptible to injuries. On the other hand, larger breeds like Great Danes and Mastiffs grow much faster and have a higher risk of developing joint problems. You should always consult with your veterinarian to determine the ideal walking routine for your puppy based on their size and breed.
Invest in the Right Equipment When Taking Your Puppy for a Walk
If you have a puppy, an adjustable harness for dogs can be beneficial as you can modify the size as your dog grows. In contrast to collars, these harnesses evenly distribute the weight across the chest and shoulders, which helps to avoid stress on the neck or throat. Additionally, a high-quality harness offers more authority over your puppy, making it simpler to manage them while walking and preventing them from pulling or jerking.
Always Ensure They Wear a Leash
Even the most well-behaved puppies can easily get distracted and wander off, putting them at risk of accidents and injuries. A leash also helps prevent your puppy from interacting with other dogs, which can be dangerous if they have not received all their vaccinations yet.
Choose a Safe and Appropriate Walking Location for Your Puppy
Avoid walking your puppy on hot pavement or asphalt during the summer months, as it can burn their paws and cause heatstroke. Instead, choose shaded areas or grassy patches where your puppy can walk comfortably. You should also avoid walking your puppy near busy roads or areas with a lot of traffic to prevent accidents.
Final Thoughts
Walking your puppy outside is an important part of their development and socialisation. Whether investing in an adjustable harness or a short leash, ensure your puppy is comfortable and safe during their walks. Following these tips ensures your puppy stays safe and healthy while enjoying their outside walks.
Get your furry friend the perfect fit with Love Harlso’s adjustable harnesses! Say goodbye to uncomfortable walks and hello to happy adventures. Shop now and give your dog the comfort they deserve!
