Walking a small dog comes with unique challenges and considerations, but with the right approach, it can be an enjoyable and enriching experience for both of you! Here are some practical tips to ensure your small dog stays comfortable, safe, and happy on every adventure.
Using a Longer Leash to Increase Agency
We all know the stereotypes about small dogs - they are loud, bossy, boisterous, sassy, etc. While it’s true that some dog breeds may vocalize more than others, it’s actually understandable that small dogs may feel the need to use their voice to communicate! The world can feel scary when you’re tiny, and being noisy can be an effective way to get scary things to move away when you don’t have the option to move away or hide.
We have found that like most dogs, small dogs thrive when they feel safe and have a sense of agency during walks. Respect your pup’s feelings about other people or dogs, and honor their communication. If they’re showing you with their body language (or vocalizations) that they’re nervous, move away! We find Doggie Language by Lili Chin to be a great resource for better understanding what your dog is telling you with their body language.
We have found that, with consistent opportunities to practice, a longer leash can help to teach a nervous dog that they have an option to create space from things that scare them. Teaching your dog that they have the option to move away from something they are not sure about may lead to fewer distance increasing behaviors - like barking and lunging - that dogs will engage in when they don’t feel they have other options. If your dog chooses to move away from a trigger rather than engage with it - make sure to reward them! This process can take time, and if you are having trouble working through your dog’s big feelings, consider hiring a qualified force free trainer in your area to help.
Photo from Jenn C.
Health, Safety, and Well Being on Walks
It’s important to pay attention to your dog’s body language and not dismiss signs of discomfort or pain. Limping, slowing down, or reluctance to walk could indicate a need for rest or a visit to the vet. If you notice sudden behavior changes, always consider possible medical issues.
While small dogs often have plenty of energy, their shorter legs mean they can tire more quickly on longer walks. Be mindful of your walking pace and take breaks as needed to ensure they stay comfortable. Establishing a regular walking routine can help your small dog feel secure and look forward to their daily outings. At the same time, incorporating new routes or locations periodically provides mental stimulation and keeps walks exciting.
The Power of Sniffing
Unstructured "sniffy walks" in new and interesting locations are fantastic for small dogs. These outings allow your dog to explore at their own pace, engaging their senses and relieving boredom. Give your dog the freedom to sniff and investigate—it’s not just enjoyable for them, but also mentally enriching. Check out our blog about enrichment walks and our suggestions for where to take a quiet enrichment walk with your dog.
Hopefully it goes without saying - but we ALWAYS stress the importance of letting your dog sniff freely on walks. Simply giving your dog the time they need to process the world through their nose is one of the simplest ways to improve their quality of life and make walks more enjoyable and mentally stimulating for them. Check out our free eBook all about the power of sniffrichment with lots of ideas on how to incorporate sniffing into your dog's life!
Keeping Your Pup Safe
Be conservative about who your small dog engages with. When encountering larger dogs, always prioritize your small dog’s safety. It is never a good idea to allow two dogs to play when one dog is significantly larger. Even well-meaning larger dogs can accidentally injure a smaller dog. Err on the side of avoiding an interaction with any unknown dog.
For small dogs, being able to be picked up can be a helpful way to navigate scary or overwhelming situations, and putting it on cue gives them a sense of control. By teaching a simple cue - like tapping your leg or saying “up” - your dog can communicate when they feel uneasy and would like to be picked up. This approach helps build trust and may allow your dog to move through the world with more confidence, knowing they have a safe retreat.
Building a solid recall with your small dog is essential, even if they’re always on a leash. Emergencies can happen, and a reliable recall ensures that, if your dog ever gets loose, they’ll come back to you quickly and safely.
Finally, always bring treats on your walks! Learn about your dog’s preferences and make sure to take a mix of high and medium value treats on your walks. Reward desired behaviors like voluntary check ins, recall, and disengaging from other dogs or people - and don’t forget to give your pups treats just for fun! Go light on ultra rich treats and keep an eye out for tummy issues. If you’re concerned about your dog’s caloric intake, you can also adjust their daily food portions to balance out the extra calories from treats.
Photo from Jennifer C.
Hydration and Weather Considerations
With less body mass, small dogs will heat up and cool down more quickly, so it’s important to take this into consideration.
Hot Weather Tips
Small dogs can dehydrate more quickly, especially in warm weather or after lots of sniffing and activity. Bring a collapsible water bowl and a small bottle of water to keep your dog hydrated during longer walks. Light-colored cooling gear, such as a cooling vest or bandana, can help prevent overheating. Additionally, always check the pavement temperature with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws. Walking during cooler times of the day, like early morning or evening, can also help keep your pup comfortable.
Cold Weather Tips
In chilly weather, small dogs—especially those with short coats—may need a jacket or sweater to stay warm. Booties can also be a great option to protect their paws from icy sidewalks, snow, or salt, which can be harsh on sensitive paw pads. If your dog isn’t comfortable wearing booties, consider using a paw balm to provide some protection. Keep walks shorter in extreme cold, and always watch for signs that your pup is getting too chilly, like shivering or lifting their paws frequently.
Other Considerations
Small dogs can be more sensitive to rough terrain, like gravel, hot pavement, or icy paths. Choose routes that are easy on their paws or consider protective booties if you’ll be walking on potentially uncomfortable surfaces. Always stay alert for potential dangers, such as wildlife. Small dogs can be vulnerable to predators like hawks, coyotes, or snakes, so avoid letting them wander too far from you on long lines, especially in rural or wooded areas.
For early morning or evening walks, reflective or light-up gear ensures your dog stays visible in low-light conditions.
It’s always a good idea to carry a small first-aid kit with items like antiseptic wipes, bandages, and tweezers for removing thorns or burrs. Knowing the location of nearby vets or emergency clinics can also be a lifesaver in case of unexpected issues. Don’t forget to bring biodegradable poop bags to keep your walks tidy and pleasant for everyone sharing the space.
Walking a small dog can be a joyful and rewarding experience, but it does come with unique considerations. By using the right gear and keeping your dog’s comfort, safety, and well-being in mind, you can turn daily walks into enriching adventures for both of you!
Missed Part 1 about Small Dog Equipment? Check it out here.