The Family Dog/ May 2011
Q: When can I walk my dog without a leash?
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A: Fortunately, this is not a question that comes up frequently. However, from time to time I do have clients that ask me this question.
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As a dog trainer and dog owner I am rather surprised to learn that there are those people that find some pleasure in owning a dog that can be walked off leash.
In my opinion, walking an unleashed dog in an urban environment is one of the most irresponsible things that a dog owner can do. Pay attention here folks! The reasons are numerous.
- 1. In most communities, walking a dog off leash is illegal.
- 2. Walking a dog off leash can quickly become dangerous. This danger can involve you, your dog, another dog, another person, automobile traffic, and children.
- 3. Dog ownership can quickly become a very costly liability.
- 4. You may have a very well trained dog, which is seldom the case, however, the other person’s dog may not be as well trained as yours.
- 5. A dog that is allowed to roam off leash will often make a deposit where the owner will not clean up. Frequently, the owner may not even be aware of such an occurrence.
- 6. This is a very easy way for your dog to get killed.
- 7. A dog can receive adequate exercise from on-leash walking.
I am not a big fan of dog parks. I can trust my dogs but I cannot trust you or your dog. Sorry folks but this is reality. If you choose to let you’re dog loose at a dog park, have confidence that you can control your own dog, always. This takes a lot of time and effort. I can help.
Additionally, keep focused with what your dog is doing at all times.
Personally, I feel that off leash dog walking should never be part of a dog-training program for the average dog owner.
