How to Walk a Dog Safely

Adjust your dog's collar to where she can't slip her head through. Then make sure it's not too tight by seeing if you can slip two fingers underneath.

Put your hand through the leash handle and wrap it around your hand and wrist for a better grip. Use a harness if your dog likes to pull. Harnesses allow for a better grip and more control. Also, the pressure is distributed more evenly when you pull so that it's not all on the dog's neck.

Bring water along for your dog if the walk will be lengthy. If he starts to pant, stop in the shade to let him drink and cool off for a few minutes.

Adjust the pace and length of the walk to your dog's age and health. If your dog is lagging behind, go slower rather than force her to keep up with you. Shorter and more frequent walks are better for senior dogs and dogs with arthritis.

Look both ways before crossing the street (in case you forgot that from when you were six). If it's at night, it's a good idea for your dog to have on a reflective collar and for you to wear reflective clothing or at least reflective tennis shoes.

Clear the way or walk in another direction when you see people with dogs approaching. Only allow your dog to approach another dog if the owner says it's OK. Also, try your best to steer clear of stray dogs and cats.

Keep your dog out of bushes; there may be cats, other small animals or perhaps stickers or poison ivy. Also, steer clear of parked cars. Cats often hang out underneath, especially when it's cold. You don't want your dog to scare any cats or to get scratched. Your dog could also bump his head on a car. Steer clear of metal signs and poles for the same reason, and keep your dog from walking under chain link fences that often have sharp edges. Also be mindful of sprinkler heads on which your dog could hurt a paw.

Leave your dog's leash on at all times when walking in public. The only time it's OK for a dog to be off of a leash is at a designated off-leash dog park.