3 Surprisingly Harmful Habits to Avoid When Walking Your Dog (And What to Do Instead)
🐾 Introduction
Walking your dog should be one of the most joyful parts of the day—for both of you. But modern habits, distractions, and even good intentions can unknowingly make walks more stressful, unsafe, or emotionally disconnected than we realize.
Here are three seemingly harmless things dog parents often do during walks that may actually do more harm than good—plus simple, mindful swaps that’ll strengthen your bond and boost your dog’s wellbeing.
🎧 1. Wearing Headphones
We get it—nothing feels better than zoning out with a podcast or playlist while strolling through the neighborhood. But for your dog, you’re not just a leash-holder—you’re their pack leader and protector.
When your ears are tuned into something else, you’re less likely to notice:
Subtle body language cues (fear, tension, excitement)
Environmental stressors (unleashed dogs, bikes, loud noises)
Their “check-ins”—those moments your dog glances at you for reassurance or connection
🐶 Why it matters: Dogs communicate silently. If you're not fully present, you’ll miss the chance to respond to their needs—and that can increase anxiety, leash pulling, or reactivity.
✅ Try this instead:
Go headphone-free at least once a day. Use the walk as an opportunity for calm, connected observation. Watch their tail, ears, sniffing rhythm. Let the environment be the soundtrack.
📱 2. Talking on the Phone
Whether it’s catching up with a friend or knocking out a quick work call, chatting while walking your dog can unintentionally make your pup feel... invisible.
Dogs thrive on your energy and body language. If you're distracted or animated in conversation, they often interpret it as confusing or overstimulating—especially if you're expressing strong emotions (like frustration or excitement) they can’t contextualize.
🐶 Why it matters: Studies show that dogs can distinguish between “directed speech” (like baby talk or pet names) and general conversation. When you’re on the phone, they know you’re not talking to them—and that can feel dismissive.
✅ Try this instead:
Use walk time as your time together. Talk to your dog instead—narrate your walk, praise their behavior, ask silly questions. It builds trust, sharpens their focus, and yes, makes them feel important.
🧃 3. Bringing Your Morning Coffee (or Snack)
Wait, what? Yup—this one might surprise you. While it sounds innocent, carrying food or drinks—especially with strong scents—can be more problematic than you think.
Here’s why:
Coffee, chocolate, or pastry crumbs can fall and be licked up (toxic alert!)
Other dogs on the path may become hyper-interested or reactive if they smell food on you
Your dog may become fixated on your hands or bag instead of focusing on the walk
Coffee cups take up your hand, making leash control harder in emergencies
🐶 Why it matters: A walk should be an experience you and your dog share—not one where they have to compete with your latte for attention.
✅ Try this instead:
Fuel up before the walk or save the coffee for after. Keep your hands free, your energy clear, and your attention tuned into your dog’s needs and cues. If you’re out for a longer trek, bring a bottle of water for them instead.
🐕 Final Thoughts
Your dog doesn’t need a perfect walk. They need you.
A few small changes in your habits can make a huge difference in how connected, calm, and confident your pup feels during your time together.
Your dog notices everything. Make sure what they’re seeing is someone who’s present, protective, and prioritizing their joy.
