I’m making a case for space. Not to worry, I’m not talking about moving to the country or buying a house with a big backyard. I’m questioning the norm and asking if we can do things differently. My recommendations are simple and don’t require spending money (except maybe on a long line).

Dogs are under a lot of pressure to conform to our ways. These are a few ways we can move toward conforming to theirs. The benefits might surprise you!

What’s space got to do with raising a puppy?

Here are four ideas to play with.

• Space for your dog to think and consider (without us talking).

• Space to move the way they want.

• Space away from other dogs, people, or activities, that cause discomfort or are too exciting for them to handle.

• Space in our calendars for quality time together.

Give me a minute

You know that feeling when you’re trying to think but someone keeps talking? Now consider your puppy when you’re teaching them skills. Giving them space to consider their next move allows them time to think, this creates moments for growth and self-discovery. A good coach will teach you how to do this — how to use pauses in the action to give your pup space to think. This new dynamic will elevate your training efforts and your relationship with your dog.

Walk this way

I would argue that most puppies don’t enjoy walking on a short leash on the sidewalk.

• The environment can be too distracting, either exciting or overwhelming.

• Constant leash tension is stressful.

• Depending on the season concrete might be excessively hot or cold (salty) and cause discomfort.

• It lacks dirt or grass, the preferred surfaces for dogs.

A puppy often ambles along slowly, exploring with their nose and mouth. A short leash prevents them from moving forward in big circles or walking faster than us if they choose to. By learning to handle a long line, you can give your puppy more space to move naturally.

Often a few extra feet of line magically stops a puppy from pulling, because all they needed was a little extra space. Can you make time to walk in open spaces? Can you learn to safely use an 8-10 foot long line while walking on the sidewalk? After getting used to the long line, many folks report that they would not go back to using a shorter leash. Try it.

Dogs need more space than we tend to give them to successfully navigate all the distractions out there.

My head is spinning

Imagine trying to learn something new in a noisy and bustling environment. Cars zooming by, strangers coming over to you, touching you, and talking to you. This environment isn’t conducive to learning, yet this is often where pups are introduced to the concept of walking on a leash and expected to pay attention to every word we say. Can you find a quieter spot with more space to start your work?

Dogs need more space than we typically give them to successfully navigate distractions, especially when they’re learning new skills. When possible, consider crossing the street or taking a detour up a driveway or walkway to give your puppy more space. This way, they won’t have to pass by people, dogs, bikes, and other distractions within just a few feet.

Space in your schedule for fun

Plan for multiple times in your day to interact with your dog, they don’t need to be long but do need to be frequent. Make space in your schedule beyond the training classes and dog walks. Space to hang out, play, and exist together. As time passes a puppy will likely become more cuddly but during the not cuddly stage, you can hold a chew for them, play tug or toss some cookies.

Dogs are so easy to make happy. Nothing fancy. Space to be together.

Make a date with your puppy — check out our Puppy Planner