Advice by Anthony Thomas- Founder and Head Canine Behaviourist at The Oxford Dog Training Company
As a canine behaviourist, I spend much of my time in the places where people walk their dogs: public footpaths, parks, fields, and shared dog-walking spaces. I also have four dogs of my own, so I understand the routine from both sides, as a professional and as an owner. What I see most often is not a lack of love or effort, but a misunderstanding of what a walk is supposed to be. Here’s what is key… you shouldn’t just walk your dog, you should walk with your dog,
Many walks unfold the same way. The dog charges ahead, choosing the route, pace, and interactions. The owner trails behind, disengaged or occupied with their phone. Off lead, the dog roams out of sight, greeting every dog and person without direction. On lead, the dog pulls so hard that the owner is merely a passenger.
In these moments, the walk stops being a shared activity. Humans and dogs are no longer moving together, and that disconnection can create significant behavioural problems.
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When Dogs Make Their Own Rules
When a dog discovers they can take complete control of the walk, several habits quickly develop.
They begin approaching every dog they see, including those who are anxious, reactive, elderly, or recovering from injury. They run up to people who may be frightened of dogs or who simply do not want a muddy jump on their clothes. They chase wildlife and moving objects without hesitation, sometimes in the direction of a road.
These behaviours are not harmless. They can escalate into conflicts, create legal issues, or result in dangerous situations for both the dog and others.
Legally, a dog is considered “not under control” if they are at a distance and acting independently of their owner’s cues. If an off-lead dog rushes toward a reactive one that is properly leashed and under management, and a fight occurs, the owner of the off-lead dog may be held responsible.
Allowing a dog total autonomy on walks teaches them habits that can be unsafe, inconsiderate, and in some cases, unlawful.
The Value of Walking With Your Dog
Now consider a different picture: a dog and owner walking together with purpose, connection, and awareness.
Walking with your dog means maintaining a shared rhythm. It means giving guidance, staying engaged, and moving as a team. In nature, pack animals travel in coordinated groups. Movement strengthens bonds and reinforces structure. When you replicate this dynamic on your walks, you tap into something deeply instinctive for your dog.
The effects are significant.- Your relationship becomes stronger, because walking together is one of the simplest and most effective ways to build trust. Your role as a steady leader is reinforced through calm consistency, not force. Your dog learns to stay close, to look to you for direction, and to check in regularly, even when off lead.
Training does not begin or end with a short obedience class. It happens every day, in every interaction, and the walk is one of the most powerful training tools you have.
The Walk Shouldn’t Be a Chore
Many people bring a dog into their life for companionship, connection, and the joy of sharing experiences. Yet somewhere along the way, the daily walk often becomes something to fit in between other obligations.
For your dog, the walk is far more meaningful. It is their time with you. It is an opportunity for communication, exploration, and reinforcement of your bond. When you approach the walk as a shared activity rather than a task, the quality of your relationship changes.
The Simple Shift That Changes Everything
Stop thinking of it as walking your dog. Start thinking of it as walking with your dog. When you make this shift, your dog’s behaviour improves, your communication becomes clearer, your bond grows stronger, and the walk becomes exactly what it is meant to be: a shared experience that benefits both of you.
Advice by Anthony Thomas
Anthony Thomas is the Founder of the Oxford Dog Training Company, where he specialises in canine behaviour and rehabilitation. Follow him on Instagram or connect on LinkedIn.
