Capable Canine Tips Tips Archive   When can my child start walking the dog? Most children should not walk the dog unless attended by you or another adult. A squirrel, loose dog, roaming cat, or piece of paper blowing in the wind could put them both in harms way. Let's be honest there are times when it is probably not so easy for you to walk your dog, what chance does your child have to succeed? Dogs, even small ones, are incredibly strong. Unless your dog is extremely well trained, a child walking a dog on their own is in a dangerous situation. As a general guideline, if the dog is heavier   than one quarter of your child's weight, your dog is too big for your child to walk unattended by an adult. Though walking your family dog seems like a harmless activity, if your child drops the lead and your dog gets hurt (or worse) it will leave a lasting unhappy memory for your child. If your child holds on to the lead and gets pulled over (or worse) it will leave a lasting unhappy memory for both of you. If your child really wishes to walk your dog, attach a second lead for him/her to handle, while an adult holds on to the main lead, or you can have your dog and child walk together in a safe fenced area.