When you’re the parent of a young child and the owner of a dog, it’s not always easy to find the time to take care of both responsibilities. The idea of walking your dog at the same time as taking your stroller for a walk can quickly become a tempting one. To make sure you’re doing things correctly and safely, here are a few tips to help you choose the right leash to attach your dog to the stroller.
I’m a perfect example of this, as I walk my dog every day in both strollers ^^.
It’s not always easy, but it works.
Choosing a special bike leash to attach your dog to your Stroller
To walk your dog while keeping your hands free to push a stroller, there are accessories adapted to the needs of dog-owning parents. These include leashes originally designed for cyclists. Bike leashes are flexible, allowing the dog to run without getting in the cyclist’s way. This same feature makes them ideal for parents who want to take their dog out in a stroller, without needing a dog stroller.
Advantages of bike leashes when used with a stroller
- Comfort: These leashes allow the dog to move freely without pulling on the stroller or rider, ensuring comfort for both.
- Safety: By keeping the dog away from the stroller and preventing entanglement, these leashes minimize the risk of accidents.
- Convenience: Most of these leashes are easy to install and remove on the stroller or bike, making it easy to switch from one activity to the other.
This is the leash I recommend for attaching to your stroller. It’s a very good bicycle leash that attaches to the stroller frame, just like a bicycle leash:
Advantages of hands-free leashes for running
Another type of leash I recommend is a hands-free leash, like the one used for runners.
Leashes that wrap around you with a harness, allowing you to freely use your hands and therefore your stroller.
Or leashes that fasten over your shoulder or around your wrist.
As long as both hands can be used to hold the Stroller.
Criteria to take into account when choosing a stroller leash
To choose the ideal leash for your dog and stroller, it’s important to consider several aspects. First of all, consider your dog’s size and weight:
- Dog size: Bike leashes designed for small dogs are often lighter and less robust than those for larger dogs.
- Weight of dog: The weight of the animal will influence the choice of leash, as some leashes can support up to 40 kilos, while others are limited to around 20 kilos.
To ensure the safety and comfort of your walk, don’t forget to check a few additional items when purchasing your leash:
- Flexibility: To prevent your dog from jerking the stroller, make sure the leash is sufficiently flexible.
- Anti-entanglement system: Some leash models feature systems to prevent your dog from becoming entangled in its leash. These devices can greatly enhance the comfort and safety of your stroller ride with your four-legged companion.
Using a conventional lead to attach your dog to a stroller: precautions to take
If you don’t have the opportunity to invest in a special bike leash or if you want to use a more traditional leash to attach your dog to your stroller, here are a few tips to follow:
- Always check that the stroller is stable and won’t tip over when the dog pulls on it.
- Use a harness rather than a simple collar to reduce the risk of strangulation and prevent injury.
- Keep one hand free to hold the leash and control your dog’s behavior during the walk to avoid any incidents. A strap on the leash can be a plus, so you don’t lose your dog and have to let your stroller take care of him.
The importance of dog training in the context of Stroller outings
To ensure the best possible cohabitation between your dog and your child in the Stroller, it’s essential to focus on dog training. A well-trained dog will be less likely to pull on its leash and will be calmer on walks, which will make your day-to-day life much easier. Don’t hesitate to consult a professional in this field if you encounter any difficulties.
Whether you’re using a special bicycle leash adapted for strollers or a conventional leash, it’s perfectly possible to walk your dog at the same time as your child in a stroller. The key word here is caution. Choose safe accessories and adapt your behavior to guarantee a pleasant moment for both your dog and your young child.
