A more considered daily walk
A few familiar essentials can make the everyday outing feel easier. This note draws on guidance from the RSPCA and on Western Australia’s Dog Act 1976.
Start with the connection
Choose a complete leash and a correctly fitted harness or collar for your dog. Follow the maker’s size chart and fitting instructions. The RSPCA Knowledgebase suggests a leash of about 2 metres, long enough to give your dog some range to explore. An extension is an accessory to a compatible setup, not a complete leash. Our note Fit comes before colour has more on fit.
Know the local rules
In Western Australia, the Dog Act 1976 generally requires a dog in a public place to be held by someone who can control it, or securely tethered, unless it is in a dog exercise area. A dog in a public place must also wear a collar with its registration tag attached. Dogs in WA must be microchipped and registered with their local council by three months of age. Councils set their own off-lead areas, so check your council’s page before you let your dog off lead.
Make room to sniff
The RSPCA encourages giving your dog the opportunity to sniff on daily walks, and RSPCA WA lists exploring and sniffing among the natural behaviours that enrichment supports. Familiar routes with time to sniff make room for your dog’s pace.
Pack for the pause
Take poo bags, fresh water, a suitable bowl and your dog’s usual rewards. Pack enough for your route and the conditions, and keep treats in a clean container. The RSPCA’s advice is short: if your dog poops, pick it up. The City of Bayswater, for example, lists not picking up after your dog as a dog infringement.
Build a small routine
Check clips, webbing and stitching before each outing. Clean and dry equipment as directed by its maker, and replace damaged pieces. On warm days, see our hot weather checklist before you head out.
From the shop
- Canny Lead: 120 cm, in 15 mm (puppies and small dogs) or 25 mm (medium and large dogs), with a padded neoprene handle.
- ACTIVEDOG Adjustable Dog Lead: 1 m to 1.5 m, reflective strap, with a traffic-control handle.
- ACTIVEDOG SAFE Dog Harness: sizes S to XL, front and back lead points; measure chest and neck first, see how to choose a dog harness.
- Canny Waterproof Lead: PVC webbing that wipes clean after wet or sandy walks, according to the maker.
Each item is sent directly by its brand; the delivery cost is shown before you pay.
Sources: RSPCA Knowledgebase, RSPCA Australia, RSPCA WA, the Dog Act 1976 (WA) and the City of Bayswater. Laws, council rules and guidance can change, so check the current versions.
Kipnook is a small Perth online shop. This guide is general information only and is not veterinary or legal advice.