© iStock

Do: Get a front clip harness -

If your furry friend always pulls on the leash, try out a front-clip harness. The harnesses help train your dog to stop pulling on the leash.

© Shutterstock

Do: Get a front clip harness - There are different types of front-clip harnesses, so do some research before making the right pick. Different types of harnesses include the Wonder Walker, Sensible Harness, and Freedom Harness.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Use a retractable leash - Retractable leashes may seem like a miracle to dog walkers around the world. However, many find the leashes to be a potential hazard.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Use a retractable leash - Retractable leashes make it harder for you to control your pet, and locks on the leashes can break with substantial pressure. Some advise you to get rid of the leashes, especially in urban areas.

© Shutterstock

Do: Let your dogs sniff around - Dog walks aren't just about getting some exercise, they're also about getting your dog to explore the world through smell. Let them sniff around a bit.

© Shutterstock

Do: Let your dogs sniff around -

Granted, it's unrealistic to let your dog sniff everything and anything on the way. However, having a few minutes to stop and smell goes a long way, with dogs getting information and stimulation from things around them.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Forget the water - When you go on a walk, you probably remember to bring a bottle of water. Next time, bring some water for your dog too.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Forget the water - Hydrating your pet is an important part of the walk. Dogs sweat through panting, and need to be hydrated. Drinking water also helps dogs avoid overheating on hot days.

© Shutterstock

Do: Pick up their poop - Surely you don't need to be told to pick up your dog's poop. However, there are some important points that dog walkers need to know.

© Shutterstock

Do: Pick up their poop - Poop that isn't picked up can cause health concerns for pets and humans, and harmful organisms can spread quickly. Even local water supplies can be affected when diseases and bacteria is soaked up by the soil.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Walk where it's too hot - Hot pavement can be a dog's worst enemy, especially during the summer. Test the pavement's temperature by placing a bare foot or hand on the surface for five seconds.

© iStock

Don't: Walk where it's too hot - Too hot for you? Then it's too hot for your dog, whose paws can be injured in the sizzling heat. Try walking on grass or dirt on the hottest of days, or even invest in some footwear.

© iStock

Do: Update their ID - You may be able to pick your pet from a line up, but making your dog wear ID tags is very important. Dogs get lost, after all.

© Shutterstock

Do: Update their ID -

Make sure to update your dog's tags with the correct address and phone number. It's also recommended you talk to your vet about a microchip, which will also need to be updated (this is actually mandatory in many countries and regions).

© Shutterstock

Don't: Approach every dog - Not every dog encounter is loving and cute. Some dogs aren't too friendly, so try to ask an owner's permission before initiating an encounter.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Approach every dog - Some dogs don't do too well during on-the-leash encounters, and others struggle with reactive problems. There are many ways to calm a reactive dog, such as keeping walks unpredictable to hold their attention.

© Shutterstock

Do: Invest in top treats - There are many ways to invest in your dog, like buying top treats to hold their attention on long walks.

© Shutterstock

Do: Invest in top treats - Whether it's a fellow dog or even a stray squirrel, whatever the distraction you can keep your dog's attention with high-quality dog treats. Strapped for cash? DIY with fruits and vegetables, or chopped up meat.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Let them drag you -

We tend to see dogs leading humans when walking. However, it's actually best to lead your dog, establishing yourself as the pack leader.

© iStock

Don't: Let them drag you - It's recommended that you take the first step out the door, and the first one in. Professionals recommend you walk beside a dog or in front of them.

© iStock

Do: Use reflective gear - Wearing reflective clothing is very important when travelling at night. The same's said while you're dog-walking, in order to keep you both safe.

© iStock

Do: Use reflective gear - If you don't have pavements or sidewalks in your neighborhood, help drivers out by wearing reflective clothing to catch their attention. You can also get one for your dog to be extra safe.

© iStock

Don't: Let them beat you into the house - It's important to lead in the house, especially after a dog walk. For example, you can allow your dog to wait while you put away their accessories.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Let them beat you into the house - This helps keep your dog disciplined, and the dynamics established during the walk are carried through into the house.

© Shutterstock

Do: Set a schedule -

After a long day, you might just want to take 10 minutes to walk the dog. However, it's advised you take the right time for your pet.

© Shutterstock

Do: Set a schedule -

Dogs are like humans, they're diurnal, meaning they live during the day. Morning walks are recommended, with 30 minutes to an hour being ideal. Talk to a vet if you're curious about your dogs needs.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Take them in too early - If your dog has the right mindset, keep them in that positive space by rewarding them with extra time during the walk. Don't rush them while they relieve themselves, for example.

© Shutterstock

Don't: Take them in too early - An important part of this point is deciding when "reward time" is over. For example, it should definitely be shorter than time spent on the walk itself.

© iStock

Do: Cook them meals - One way to reward your dog in the house is by preparing a good meal. This rewards your pet in an effective way, showing that they have earned something special for their hard work.

© Shutterstock

Do: Cook them meals -

Home-cooked dog food diets include lean turkey, cubed beef, or even whole cooked grains like brown rice. Check with a vet to see what foods your dog is comfortable with.

Now that you're here, read about how dogs communicate with their owners.

© Shutterstock