If you’re a new parent, you may be wondering how to manage walks with your dog best and push a stroller. Here are a few tips to make things go more smoothly.
There are many difficulties that come with welcoming a new baby into the family. One of the many challenges is how to handle walking your dog while pushing a stroller. It may seem like an overwhelming task, but with the right preparations and strategies, it can be quite manageable.
Picking the Right Leash
Choosing the right leash can make a world of difference when you are walking a dog while also pushing a stroller.
Hands-Free Leash
Consider getting a hands-free leash for your pup so you can focus on steering the stroller. This will keep both of your hands-free to push the stroller or hold the baby if necessary.
A hands-free leash will also give you the freedom that you need in order to take proper care of your baby such as putting a binky back in his or her mouth if they get fussy or retucking a blanket that has gotten loose.
Shorter is Better
Another key point to consider when walking a dog while pushing a baby in a stroller is the length of the leash. I have found that a shorter leash is much easier than a long one.
I have several six-foot leashes that are my go-to for walks and runs with my dog. However, when I have the stroller, the six-foot leash is too long. When my dog is close to the stroller and the leash is around my wrist, the leash gets caught in the wheel of the stroller. This can be extremely frustrating.
I have found that a four-foot leash is much more manageable when I am walking my dog while pushing a stroller. The four-foot length gives my dog some slack to explore what is on the side of the trail or sidewalk. It does not get caught in the stroller wheel nearly as much as the longer leash.
Be Prepared for Poop
There is nothing that can ruin a walk faster than a baby having a large poopy diaper or a dog pooping and not being ready to pick up after it.
In order to avoid this, always be prepared. Bring a few extra plastic bags with you before you leave the house or in the stroller storage area so that you are always prepared for your pup’s deposits.
You should also always be prepared to change your baby’s diaper. This comes with the territory of having a baby but it is still true when you are out for a walk with your dog and a stroller.
Start with Shorter Walks
Walking a dog and pushing a stroller is not only convenient for parents, but it can also benefit the pet. Getting your pup used to walking close to a stroller should begin with shorter walks in low-traffic areas. Choose quiet routes with ample sidewalks for walking so there won’t be any surprise noise or congestion.
At first, walking without the stroller is ideal, and walking around your neighborhood is usually preferred as your pet will be familiar with the sounds of home. As you continue walking together, gradually increase walk time each day and let your pup explore new areas if they seem comfortable.
When you feel like they’re ready, allow them to investigate the stroller while it’s stationary and then take short strolls so they can get an idea of what walking next to a stroller is like and what reactions may arise from passersby. Doing this will help them become accustomed to the feeling of walking briskly while staying focused on their master despite changes in mechanics or activity level in their environment.
In addition, use positive reinforcement during walks with the stroller to reward desirable behaviors such as staying close to you or looking at you when guidance is needed. This way, you will help strengthen your bond while building self-confidence in everyone’s favorite four-legged friend!
Keep your dog on the same side of the stroller
An important step to getting your dog used to walking with the stroller is keeping them on the same side of the stroller at all times. This is important to emphasize from day one so that your dog will not be crossing back and forth in front of the stroller. This is especially important if you plan on running with your dog and a stroller.
This is another great reason to choose a shorter leash. While your dog is getting used to walking or running next to the stroller, a shorter leash will ensure that they stay on one side of the stroller without cutting in front.
Training your dog to stay on the same side of the stroller will help protect your dog from getting run over. Strollers can carry a lot of momentum and it is easy for a dog to get distracted and wander in front of the stroller. This can end up seriously injuring your dog.
With patience and continued practice, walking a dog while pushing a stroller will become second nature for both pet owner and pup alike!
Make sure your dog is well-trained before taking them out on walks with the stroller
Taking your pet on a leisurely stroll with your baby in the stroller can be an enjoyable activity for both you and your pup. It allows them to get some fresh air. However, before taking the plunge into strolling with your pup there are certain things to keep in mind.
First and foremost, it is important to make sure that your pooch is well-trained before hitting the pavement. Having a dog that does not understand basic commands such as “down” or “sit” can be dangerous for both you and your pet as well as any other animals and people you may come across during your walk.
This is also important because your primary responsibility will be to care for your baby that is in the stroller. This means that your dog must be able to follow basic commands without extra encouragement.
You should also make sure your dog is leashed whenever they are out of the stroller, just to ensure that their curiosity doesn’t get them into any trouble. All of this will prevent any mishaps or accidents from happening on your leisurely walks with your four-legged companion.
Even though you should always have your dog leashed while walking with a stroller, you should also make sure that you spend some time training your dog off-leash as well. This will make it easier for you if you run into a situation where you need your dog to listen while on a walk and you cannot be holding their leash.
Ultimately, by properly training and leashing your pup, you can have countless hours of pleasant walks with your beloved pet in tow.
Be mindful of hot weather – walk during cooler hours and make sure to bring along a shady spot for breaks
Hot weather can be a great opportunity to get outside and go for a walk, but it is important to be mindful of the risks. Walking during the hottest hours of the day increases your, your dog, and your baby’s risk of serious heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heat exhaustion, and sunburn.
Walking in cooler hours is the best way to stay safe and comfortable in the heat. It is also helpful to bring along some kind of portable shade where you can take a break when you need one. This can be anything from an umbrella or beach tent to a large hat or shirt stretched over sticks. If the sun seems too intense, step into your cool spot of shade for as long as you need before returning back out on your walk.
By being aware of how hot it is outside and taking appropriate precautions, you can safely enjoy exercise outdoors even during extreme temperatures. Take advantage of natural shadows from buildings and trees too – they’re great resources!
Taking breaks in shaded areas will help keep your energy levels up while remaining safe on the hot summer days that may lie ahead. Remember: staying smart in hot weather will keep everyone healthier and happier!
Final Thoughts on Walking a Dog with a Stroller
Walking a dog with a stroller can be very stressful, but it can also be very rewarding. Make sure that you always think of the safety of your baby and dog.
By following the tips above, you can make walking your dog while pushing a stroller much easier and more enjoyable. Get out there and start exploring with your pup and baby! Good luck on your journeys!
