Hillary's Hounds

The ART of the WALK

A good dog walk stands out stands out in a crowd.  There is a calm satisfaction and balance in both dog and owner when the walk is done well.  Nevertheless, I get asked almost daily by people who see me teaching dogs the Art of the Walk, “How do you get a dog to do that?  Can all dogs learn that?”  I’m happy to say, yes, they can.  And in a short time.

I always used to wonder what it is about an Artful Dog Walk that made it seem like a dance.  And how is it the commonest dog takes on a regal look when he knows how to conduct himself, while the loveliest purebred seems unbalanced if he doesn’t?  I also wondered why well-behaved dogs look so peaceful and fulfilled on outings, their owner so relaxed and unencumbered.  

 

You’ll know you are watching an Artful Walk when you see a quiet eye and the rolling gait of a dog “in the zone,” as Cesar Millan describes it.  You’ll also see a man or woman holding the leash loosely between softly closed fingertips as the dog floats next to them. It’s a primal dance, something both dogs and humans recognize and enjoy when they experience it. 

This apparent connection and skill I am describing is what I call the Art of the Walk.  It is a skill every dog and human can learn.  In fact, no matter what issues you might face with your dog, his temperament or his age, you will find that many problems begin to subside with minimal work once you learn Art of the Walk.

So let us teach your dog the Art of the Walk.  We’ll show him how to dance with you, and then we will teach you how to lead.  No more pulling or chaotic shifting back and forth down the sidewalk, or that sense of holding a balloon at the end of a tether, instead of a dog.  What you will get is that smooth, floaty movement of a dog that knows how to walk with his family pack.  There is no gentler way to become pack leader, no better way for your dog to discover the inner leader in you.  You’ll both enjoy it and your walks will become more satisfying and peaceful.

Loveliest of all, you will have discovered the Art of the Walk.

All things begin with the Walk.

What Dogs Benefit Most From the Art of the Walk? 

The Art of the Walk is highly beneficial for every kind of dog, from shy or anxious dogs to aggressive or unsocialized dogs, from small dogs to big ones, young dogs to old ones (who can learn a thing or two about new tricks let me tell you).

In session one, 7 month old Max learned to sit

The Art of the Walk and Your Puppy

The earlier you start your youngster the happier you’ll both be.  We’ve modified our Art of the Walk Program to teach puppies how to walk with a human as well as “Come,” “Sit,” and other important skills that can keep him safe and make your enjoyment more complete.

in session Two, max literally taught himself "down" without verbal commands

 

The Artful Walk is a starting point from which you can teach your dog virtually anything because it creates an optimal state of calm receptivity and trust in a dog - this is when he will hear you if you whisper.

Let us teach your dog and you the Art of the Walk, and your dog will become more balanced and peaceful, a true companion whose highest potential is now available for you both to enjoy.

 Teacup Pomeranian Koala at 6 months old. By Session #2 he learned to sit each time we stopped and now heels effortlessly.

For more information and scheduling, please call us at 415 453 4515. 

Hillary’s Hounds offers Training, Daily Dog Walks and Pet Sitting in Marin.  All of our handlers and pet sitters are trained in the Art of the Walk, making every Training Session, Dog Walk and Pet Sit a positive and stabilizing experience for your dog.