Using the Q-Walker™ can be an excellent decision for responsible dog owners or handlers, as it provides control over their dog’s location at all times. Additionally, it allows for more use of the owner/handler’s hands. If you have an injury or condition that restricts the use of your arms, wrists, or hands, the Q-Walker can make it easier for you to control your dog during walks.
The Q-Walker offers a variety of benefits, including for competition dogs. Too much repetition and practice can lead to boredom, resulting in inconsistent heeling and positioning. However, using the Q-Walker correctly, along with guides and a unique command, can prevent your dog from pulling, lagging, or forging from the start. You can clearly communicate your expectations to your dog, and because the training is hands-free, there is no inconsistency. This means that your dog will be better trained or retrained in half the time. You can also move in a more natural posture, which will allow both you and your dog to have more fun and enjoy training. Additionally, teaching your dog to do a swing finish is easy.
For companion dogs, the Q-Walker can teach your dog to walk calmly by your side. Your hands are free while shopping or walking, and you can visit with others without worrying about your dog wandering away. By teaching your dog that he is never to potty or mark while attached to the Q-Walker, you can prevent embarrassing mistakes. Additionally, your dog will not interact with other dogs who may be contagious while in the vet’s office. Walking two dogs together is also easy when one is attached to the Q-Walker and the other is on a lead. Once properly conditioned, you will never again be embarrassed by any bad behaviors.
For service dogs, the Q-Walker can prevent accidental dropping of the lead if the handler is arthritic, has tremors, or is inconsistent when holding the lead. Such handling can prevent the dog from doing tasks he was trained to do. For those who are seeing or hearing impaired, have mobility problems, lack confidence, experience social anxiety, need emotional support, or even have minor dementia, the Q-Walker frees the dog to make decisions and do the tasks you need him to do. Using the Q-Walker also automatically reinforces the sharpness of the original training with each outing, which is important for maintaining the dog’s training.
When you go out to eat, the Q-Walker can help your dog relax under a table while your hands remain free and control remains intact. Trips to a restroom or other tight areas are also easier to manage and maneuver when the dog is attached to the Q-Walker. The Q-Walker also makes it easier to manage the dog when working with or approaching other dogs.
For puppies, introducing them to a short 5-10 minute session a few days each week and using a unique command associated only with walking attached to the Q-Walker can teach the concept at about 4 months of age. After the session, allow the puppy to go back to playing. By the time the puppy matures closer to 7-10 months old, you will have a puppy that understands that he has permission to play, except when attached to the Q-Walker. With consistency, you can end up with a dog you can take anywhere without struggle.