Intro to Walking
A Beginner's Guide
Going on regular walks with your dog has benefits for both canine and owner. Just like humans, dogs need exercise to help them stay fit and keep weight off. Diet plays an important role in this as well, but for this post we are just focusing on walks.
Walking will also help reduce your dog's stress and get their energy levels down so they aren't as hyperactive when they get home. This beginner guide will help you get started with regular walks and helping your dog understand when to stop and go with you.
What You Need To Get Started
Leash (4ft)
Collar
Treats (to reward them for good behavior)
Make sure they are hungry so do not give them a full meal before training.
Don't train on a full belly. Give your Corgi time before going on a walk.
Helpful Commands to Know Before This Guide Begins
Come or recall
I recommend every time you give them the command to come that they always go to your left side. This way they know where they belong instead of generally coming back to you
Step By Step
The following steps are meant to be taken overtime and at their level of success. Do not proceed further than your dog is ready to go.
Remember that during your training your dog may regress. Consistency and patience is key when training.
Their progress is not a straight linear line. It is an upward trajectory.
Step 1
Collar and leash your dog.
Make sure the collar will NOT slip off your dog's neck!
Next take them to an area with plenty of walking space.
Step 2
Stand in place and wait for them to get used to their surroundings so they start off with less distraction.
Step 3
Recall them so they begin at your side.
This is where they should stay in relation to you while walking.
Step 4
Begin walking a few steps, somewhere between 3-9. Then stop.
Repeat this step and go process until they do well and stay next to you consistently.
Do not walk the same amount of steps.
You don't want your dog knowing when to stop. Just that you might.
Step 5
Repeat step 4, but add more distance.
Step 6
Walk normally in your area from 1 object to another at the same pace.
Randomly include stops that are difficult to predict.
Make sure your dog stays next to you and correct them if they go too far ahead of you.
Some distraction is okay and expected. They are still learning and experiencing the world.
Remember to be consistent in your enforcement.
Step 7
Now instead of going from 1 object to another in your walking area, use a walking trail or park.
Distractions will be more significant.
Expect to see people and other dogs.
Do your best to correct your dog so they stay by your side.
Step 8
Continue walking your dog in diverse environments to get them used to things or people/animals they may not regularly see.
This will enforce expected behaviors as you correct and reward them for their performance on staying by your side at your pace.