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Teach your dog to cross the street

Learn how to cross the street safely together with your dog, as this is very important. Follow the step by step instructions below. The following steps are specially for dogs that never been exposed to traffic before, or for dogs that are afraid of traffic.

Cross the street safety

• If your dog is not used to traffic, accustom him to the sights and sounds by taking him to a spot where you can sit and watch traffic go by without being too close. Distract him by offering small pieces of food or a desirable toy. Don’t fuss over him or hold him coz that will just make him feel that there is something to be afraid of. Speak to him in a normal tone.
• Once the dog appears unbothered by the traffic, walk him quietly on the sidewalk, again distracting him as vehicles approach. Reward him after they have passed. Soon he will look to you for a reward and ignore the traffic.
• When crossing the street, stop at a point where you have a good view in both directions. Avoid crossing at intersections unless there is a pedestrian crossing. Command your dog to sit at the heel position while you check whether the street is safe to cross. Continue to remind the dog to stay, keeping his attention on you with a treat, toy, or verbal encouragement until you cross.
• Cross only when the street is clear in both directions. Keep checking for approaching vehicles and keep your dog’s attention on you by holding a treat in the hand closest to you.

Key points to remember

• Start by training on quiet streets
• Be sure that your dog’s collar is adjusted correctly so he can’t slip out of it and escape into the street
• Leash length is important. It must be a suitable type for the size of your dog and not too long for good handling and control. Using a retractable leash isn’t a good idea when walking your dog near traffic. If he should dash out into the path of vehicles, you may not be able to stop him quickly enough
• Keep your dog in the sit position as traffic is passing so he is under control until you are ready to cross
• Be sure you have the dog’s attention before stepping off the curb

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