There is something truly special about taking that first proper walk with your new puppy. There is lots of curiosity and tail wagging, and when done right it can mark a bonding moment that both of you will remember forever.
Of course, before you clip on a lead and stroll out of the front door, you need to make sure that you have all of the best gear for the job. A decision on the wrong collar or harness can result in anything from discomfort to poor leash behavior to even injury.
Don’t worry though, we’ve got all the info and advice that you need! Here is how to choose the perfect setup for your pup’s first proper outing.
- Start with the Right Collar
Puppy collars are so much more than simple fashion statements, they actually help to provide the foundation of your pet’s comfort and safety. Adjustable collars are perfect for growing pups, made from soft materials that are still durable. They need to be lightweight but secure, and always offer enough room for two of your own fingers to fit between material and neck.
A leather collar for puppies is the premium choice, thanks to a perfect combination of elegance, strength and comfort. In particular, look out for styles that are made from vegetable-tanned leather like this offered at The Lille Bjorn. You will find the perfect blend of quality materials and careful craftsmanship.
- Why a Harness Can Help
Collars are an essential item for quick trips out and attaching important ID tags, but you might also want to consider a puppy harness for more involved walks, and for smaller or more delicate breeds. A good quality harness helps to distribute pressure across the shoulders and chest more evenly, thus protecting joints and preventing pain from pulling.
The best thing to do is choose a harness that is designed specifically for puppies, one that is breathable, lightweight and adjustable as they grow. Try it out on your dog initially indoors so they can get the feel of it before actually leaving the house. Doing this ensures that they won’t be overwhelmed with too much new experience all at once!
- Selecting the Right Leash
Puppies are happiest when they have a routine of consistency and closeness on walks, so it’s best to avoid using retractable leashes in the early stages. Instead, a classic fixed-length leash of around 1.2 to 1.5 metres long is ideal, giving enough room for your pup to explore whilst still keeping them close.
Again, the best leashes are those made from supple leather and finished with sturdy hardware. When paired with a good handmade dog collar, you have yourself a wonderfully coordinated walking set that will help your puppy to thrive.
- Comfort, Fit & Growth
Puppies grow faster than anyone can imagine, sometimes even in the blink of an eye! To keep up with this, you need accessories that can be adjusted as each spurt happens. It’s a good idea to perform weekly checks on the fit of collars and harnesses, and act accordingly if you notice any tightness or rubbing.
You want these fittings to be a nice experience, so make sure to use plenty of praise and treats to create positive association and feeling with all of your walking gear.
A Moment to Remember
At the end of the day, your first walk with your new puppy is the start of a whole lifetime of adventures, and a crucial stage in making sure that that experience is a positive one is having all of the best and more appropriate accessories in place. Thankfully, The Lille Bjorn can help with that!
When each step is new, only the very best will do!
Never had animals as so many allergies – great advice
I would love to get as a dog as I think walking it would encourage me to exercise more