As a Professional Dog Trainer and someone who has walked and worked with hundreds of different dogs Dog Walking Toronto, I spend a lot of time watching other dogs and their owners as I work my way through the city. One thing I often notice is how many dogs are wearing ill-fitting equipment—collars and harnesses that could easily allow them to slip free if they get startled or excited. I also see many owners not paying attention to their dog, allowing them to hit the end of the leash, pull ahead, and walk straight into approaching dogs. Keeping your dog safe on walks isn’t just about where you go—it’s about taking the right precautions to avoid conflicts and prevent accidents.
Here are some key safety tips that I not only follow when walking dogs but that we have also implemented as We Wag Dog Walking policies for our Dog Walkers. These are simple things every person walking a dog can do, and through experience, we’ve learned they make a significant difference in keeping dogs safe.
1. Use Two Pieces of Equipment with a Safety Clip
Even the most secure harness or collar can fail in the wrong situation. That’s why I always use two points of connection when walking dogs. A safety clip can attach your leash to both a harness and a collar, providing a backup in case one piece of equipment fails. This small thing can prevent a dangerous escape if a dog's equipment fails from a clasp breaking, or if the dog backs out of its harness or collar unexpectedly. Safety clips are more a Dog Walkers piece of equipment so they can be hard to find in local shops. A cute local store in the Toronto Beaches that carries safety clips, is Raw 101.
If that is not in your neighbourhood, it may be easiest to search Amazon. If you find another local store that carries Safety Clips, I would love to hear about it! Leave a comment below!
2. Check That Your Equipment Fits Securely
Properly fitting equipment is essential for keeping your dog safe. Collars should be snug enough that they can’t slip over your dog’s head, but not so tight that they cause discomfort. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen owners with collars so loose that their dog could easily slip out of them. When I mention this, I often hear that they believe a loose collar is more comfortable for their dog. However, I don’t believe this is true. Properly fitted equipment could save your dog’s life, and nothing is more important than that.
You should be able to fit two fingers between the collar and your dog’s neck. Many store-bought harnesses also allow dogs to back out of them if they pull in the right direction. When choosing a harness, look for one that fits snugly around the chest and shoulders with adjustable straps to prevent escape. If you’re unsure, ask a professional for a fitting recommendation.
3. Avoid On-Leash Interactions with Other Dogs
Many dog owners allow their dogs to meet other dogs while on leash, but this can actually be risky. Not all dogs are comfortable with on-leash greetings, and a bad interaction can lead to injury or behavioral issues. Leashes can create tension, making dogs more reactive or uncomfortable in close proximity. It’s always safest to keep a respectful distance and avoid unnecessary interactions with unfamiliar dogs.
4. Give Extra Space to Other Dogs When Needed
Many dogs are not comfortable in close proximity to dogs they are not familiar with. It’s important to pay attention to body language when passing another dog, and if either your dog or the other dog looks uncomfortable, make space. Some signs to watch for include stiff posture, raised hackles, intense staring, and a tucked or stiff tail—these can all indicate discomfort and be a warning that a reaction is about to happen. If you notice these signs in another dog—or your own—it’s best to create distance immediately.
Size differences between dogs can also lead to dangerous situations, even if both dogs are friendly. If you see a much larger dog approaching and you have a smaller dog, cross the street or move into an alleyway or driveway until they pass. This isn’t about assuming the larger dog is aggressive—it’s simply about minimizing risk. If a large, excited dog jumps or plays too rough, a smaller dog could get unintentially injured. Likewise, if you have a large dog and see a small dog approaching, you should move out of the way and give the smaller dog space.
If you have trouble getting your dog to move with you when needed, it may be time to seek help from a Professional Dog Trainer.
By following these simple but effective safety precautions, you can greatly reduce the chances of accidents or dangerous situations while walking your dog.
What are some safety checks that you practice while walking your dog? Leave comments below
Nicola Smith, Certified Professional Pet Dog Trainer
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