We love taking our dogs out on hikes.  It is a great time to be outside.  And in this setting your dog can roam around freely without too much worry.  But before you go on an outdoor adventure with your pet, it is wise to prepare your dog beforehand.  Your dog needs to be well-trained in different commands ensuring the safety of your dog during these hikes.

Review “Sit and Stay”

Not everyone is a dog lover.  There are hikers, cyclists, and runners who would prefer to avoid your pet, especially when your dog is off-leash.  Therefore, teach your pet how to sit and stay.   That way if someone is coming across your path, you could walk to the side of the path with your dog and use the command in this situation.  Your dog will just move to the side, sit and stay until the other person, animal or traveler passes.  It keeps your dog safe and out of harm’s way.

Master “Come Here”

When you are outside with your dog in the wilderness, you want to give your canine a bit of freedom by having your pet wander off-leash but only if your dog has mastered the come here command.  With your dog knowing how to “come here”, you are able to relieve yourself of the stress of having to hold on tight to your dog’s leash.  In addition, if you prefer to keep your dog next to you on a leash, the “come here” command still needs to be taught.  Reason being is in case the leash accidentally slips out of your hand, you will still be able to call to your dog and your pet responds accordingly.
For more tips on how to prepare your dog for outdoor adventures, talk to a Florida dog training or k9 obedience professional today.  He/she will be able to guide you on how to teach these commands through positive reinforcement.