Start claiming territory in your neighbourhood
Begin with the streets you already walk. Colour them in, close a few blocks, then expand one street at a time.
A countryside walk can reset a city dog's brain. It can also become a livestock incident if you treat footpaths like a private park.
On lead around farm animals unless you are certain of recall and local rules allow otherwise. If cattle approach, drop the lead and get yourself to safety first — advice echoed by countryside and welfare groups for a reason.
Close gates. Stick to the path through crops. Pick up even when "nobody is watching".
Expect both. Check coats after longer grass. Dry gear before the car seats forgive you.
Loops across quiet lanes work beautifully for closing territory. Just do not trespass for a prettier colour on the map. Public rights of way only.
Download Patch free on iOS or Android. Tap once when you leave, walk as normal, and see what ground your dog claims.
Download the free dog walking game on iOS and Android. Your first patch takes about four minutes.
Begin with the streets you already walk. Colour them in, close a few blocks, then expand one street at a time.
Short routes, clear jobs for each child and a dog who is not used as a tractor. Keep expectations small and the exit easy.
Weekends are for slightly bigger loops, new parks and beach checks — without turning Sunday into a military campaign.