Rules for walking large dogs

Rule number 1. Follow the letter of the law

On the territory of the Russian Federation, the Federal Law “On Responsible Treatment of Animals” is in force, which clearly spells out the rules for walking dogs. Fines of up to 5 thousand rubles are provided for violation of the law.

Be vigilant: owners of large dogs are subject to more serious requirements than owners of small ones. If neighbors and passers-by can turn a blind eye to a Jack Russell Terrier running around the yard, then the French Mastiff can cause their discontent and attract the attention of the police.

So, the law prohibits:

• dog walking in cemeteries and public institutions (schools, kindergartens, clinics, etc.);

• walking dogs without a leash;

• walking large dogs without a muzzle in crowded places (streets, retail outlets, children’s and sports grounds, etc.);

• walking dogs near residential buildings (the distance between the place of walking and the building must be at least 25 meters);

• independent walking of dogs of large breeds by children under 14 years old.

It is also an administrative offense to contaminate public places with excrement, so during a walk you need to have a bag and a scoop ready. However, all of the above rules do not mean that you cannot freely walk with a large dog in the city. Without a leash and a muzzle, a pet can be walked in a specially fenced area from which he cannot get out on his own (for example, on dog grounds). Free walking is also possible in large parks with few passers-by.

Rule number 2. Don’t forget about training

A good walk is impossible without running. However, you should not let your dog off a short leash if it has not been trained in basic commands. To do this, she must know perfectly and, at the first request, execute such commands as “Stand”, “Come to me”, “Sit”, “Fu”. Only then can you provide her with a safe time on the street.

Rule number 3. Consider Your Dog’s Needs

Every dog, regardless of size, breed and place of residence, needs long walks, because a walk is not just an opportunity to satisfy physiological needs, it is an integral part of a pet’s healthy life. Even if a large dog lives in the yard and has the ability to move, it still needs to go beyond the boundaries of the site.

First of all, walks are important to ensure sufficient physical activity of the dog. Their duration depends on the individual needs of the pet. If he spends most of his time lounging on the couch, then the walk must be long. If you and your dog participate in games, go in for sports, then the walking time can be reduced.

Features of walking large dogs:

• Large dogs should be walked at least 2 hours a day. You can evenly divide this time into several outings, or arrange long walks only once a day, limiting yourself to a couple of short outings at other times;

• On average, large breed dogs need two walks a day. Please note that veterinarians recommend making the time interval between walks no more than 12 hours. Keep in mind that puppies and older dogs need to be walked more often;

• The activity of walking depends on your capabilities and on the abilities of the dog. Ideally, walks should include a quiet part, where the dog walks on a leash next to the owner, and an active part, during which the pet can run;

• Games for resourcefulness and dexterity make the walk enjoyable and rewarding. At the same time, it is important to slightly change its route so that the dog does not get bored;

• When walking for a long time, you need to take water for your pet with you.

Walking is an important part of a dog’s social life. During the walk, dogs get the opportunity to throw out their energy, communicate with other dogs, and fully use all the senses. From new sensations and physical activity, their mood rises and strength is added. Moreover, a good walk strengthens the relationship between the owner and the pet and gives both pleasant emotions.

April 19 2018

Updated: 14 May 2022