Benefits of Using a Dog Walking Stick for Better Control and More Enjoyable Walks

The Benefits of Using a Dog Walking Stick

Taking your dog for a walk is one of the joys of being a pet owner. Not only does it provide your furry friend with much-needed exercise, but it's also a great way for you to get outside and stay active as well. While standard leashes work fine for many dogs, using a dog walking stick can provide some additional benefits during your strolls.

Better Control and Training

For dogs that tend to pull on the leash, a walking stick allows you to maintain control without having to hold the leash quite as tight. The stick acts as an extension of your arm, giving you more leverage against your dog's movements. This can be especially useful for training puppies or high-energy dogs who haven't mastered leash manners yet.

Walking sticks are also great for keeping your dog close by your side as you walk. The stick essentially creates an invisible barrier that helps guide your dog to walk next to you, rather than letting them wander in front or behind you. This level of control promotes better leash training.

Aid for Balance

A walking stick can help provide stability and balance for both you and your dog. Dogs have a tendency to suddenly stop, change direction or chase after something that catches their eye. When your dog does this on a walk, the momentum can easily throw you off balance. But an ergonomic dog walking stick helps brace you against such sudden movements.

The stick is also useful for maintaining your own balance on uneven terrain. Whether you're strolling through the neighborhood or traversing hiking trails, a sturdy walking stick helps stabilize your steps.

Protection from Other Dogs

Unfortunately, not all dogs you encounter on walks will be friendly. Aggressive dogs with irresponsible owners are a far too common occurrence. A walking stick serves as a useful barrier between your dog and an approaching, unruly dog. You can use the stick to keep the other dog at bay until the owner gains control of their pet.

The stick also discourages other curious dogs from invading your dog's space. The sight of the stick is often enough to make them think twice about coming too close.

Pick Up Tool

As any dog owner knows, nobody likes stopping to pick up dog waste with nothing but a thin plastic bag. A walking stick lets you pick up and dispose of waste without having to bend down. Simply use the hooked end of the stick to scoop under the poop and transport it to the nearest trash can.

Some dog walking sticks come with small shovel-like attachments for this specific purpose. They make the clean-up process even easier.

Exercise Aid

Dogs love to play fetch and having a walking stick makes for a built-in fetch toy anytime. Simply toss the stick a short distance and encourage your dog to run after it and bring it back. They'll happily chase and retrieve it over and over again.

You can also use the walking stick for more structured exercise by tying a string from the stick to a nearby tree or post. Let your dog grab one end of the stick and play a brief game of tug-of-war. It's a great way to burn off excess energy at the start or end of your walk.

Senior Dog Assistance

For aging dogs that may be slowing down, a walking stick can provide helpful support and stability. Hooking the curved handle around the dog's hindquarters gives them something to lean against if they need a little help staying balanced. It reduces strain on their joints and muscles.

The walking stick essentially serves as a crutch that takes some of the body weight off an elderly dog's legs. Just be sure to choose a stick tall enough to suit your dog's height.

Affordable Option

Unlike some other dog walking accessories, sticks are usually very affordable or free. Look for a fallen branch from a hardwood tree that's straight and a good thickness. Remove any protruding twigs and shape one end into a curving handle using sandpaper. Or you can purchase a ready-made ergonomic dog walking stick for around $20-30 on average.

Either way, it's a budget-friendly investment compared to more complex no-pull harnesses and reactive leashes which can cost upwards of $50 or more.

Key Features to Look For

If purchasing a dog walking stick, there are a few key features to look for:

• Adjustable length - choose a stick that telescopes out to your desired length
• Padded handle - ensures comfortable, slip-free grip during use
• Durable material - aluminum alloy or high-density plastics last longest
• Reflective accents - improves visibility in low light
• Ergonomic shape - curved handle keeps wrist in natural position
• Quick-release clip - easily and quickly attaches to dog collar or harness
• Wrist strap - prevents stick from slipping out of hand

A high-quality dog walking stick with features like these will provide better control, durability and a safer, more enjoyable walking experience.

Proper Use Tips

To get the most out of your dog walking stick, keep these proper use tips in mind:

• Adjust length appropriately to your height and arm length
• Always grip the padded handle rather than thin stick body
• Keep wrist and arm relaxed to absorb shock from dog's pulling
• Angle stick in front of you, don't wildly swing side to side
• Use gentle forward pressure, don't ever hit or jab dog
• Start use at a young age for best leash training results
• Lure dog into correct heel position using treats if needed
• Practice commands like "let's go" "this way" as you walk
• Watch stick doesn't become a trip hazard or block your view

With the proper fit, techniques and lots of positive reinforcement, a dog walking stick can make for more pleasant, controlled walks.

Safety Considerations

While dog walking sticks provide many benefits, there are a few safety precautions to keep in mind as well:

• Don't leave a dog unattended with stick to avoid chewing risk
• Monitor for skin chafing where collar attaches to stick
• Use care when tossing stick to avoid poking dog's eye
• Select smooth, sanded sticks to prevent splinters
• Check condition frequently for cracks or damage
• Closely supervise use near children or elderly adults
• Avoid metal stick in thunderstorms
• Don't rely solely on stick for dog with severe pulling issues

With some common sense precautions, you can minimize any risks that may accompany using a dog walking stick.

The Bottom Line

Dog walking sticks are a handy accessory that provide you with better control over your dog on leash. They aid in training and correcting unwanted behaviors like pulling or wandering. Walking sticks also give you extra leverage and stability on different terrains. And they can even double as a handy clean-up tool or quick fetch toy.

Choosing a stick with adjustable length, proper grips and durable construction will give you the most benefits. Use it humanely alongside positive reinforcement training for well-mannered leash walking. With the proper precautions, a dog walking stick can make your daily walks more pleasant for both you and your furry friend.

FAQs

What are the main benefits of a dog walking stick?

A dog walking stick provides better control over your dog, aids in training leash manners, gives you stability on walks, acts as a barrier to other dogs, and can be used to pick up waste. It also serves as a fetch toy and provides support for aging dogs.

What should I look for when choosing a walking stick?

Look for adjustable length, padded handle, durable aluminum or plastic construction, reflectors, ergonomic shape, quick release clip, and wrist strap. These features provide control, comfort, and safety.

How can I make my own dog walking stick?

Find a straight, solid fallen tree branch and sand off any protrusions. Shape one end into a curved handle. Cut it to size for your dog's height. Add reflectors for visibility.

How do I use a dog walking stick correctly?

Adjust it to the proper length. Grip the padded handle only. Relax your arm to absorb pulling shock. Angle gently in front, don't swing wildly. Use treats and praise to reinforce training.

Are there any safety concerns with dog walking sticks?

Don't leave it unattended for chewing risk. Check for skin chafing. Select smooth sanded sticks without splinters. Avoid use near children's faces or elderly shins. Don't use near thunderstorms.