Does anyone go in-line skating with their doodle?

[Robin, dalai, and Parker]

I'm looking for tips to introduce my doodle to skating with me. My DH got the skates for my b-day and I can't wait to try them. Any advice would be appreciated. I can't seem to walk as fast as she would like tto fo

[Valerie and Cody]

Well, I'd say you should make sure she's really good on a heel command first. I don't know how good you are on skates, but I fall down pretty easily. I'm sure, though, that no matter how good you are, she could pull you over if she started running. You may even want to try a training collar such as a gentle leader or prong collar (which ever works best for you).

If she has a good heel command, getting her to follow you with the skates on shouldn't be too difficult. You may, however, want to give her some time to sniff the skates and to see them on you. If you can, take her to an enclosed area (tennis courts are good although this is often frowned upon) and skate there. Play games with her while you skate. Encourage her to chase you, and give her treats when she gets to you. You can practice her heel here as well, and treat her as she walks next to you.

Just remember, always keep it fun. If she's scared of the skates, she won't have fun with them!