subject: Leash Training Tips For Problem Dogs [print this page] Pulling on the leash is most likely something dogs have been doing from the first time a human tried to walk one. They just do not like being held back. So the more you try to keep them in check, the more they pull.
Now, the dog is not doing this to exert dominance, or make you angry. He just wants to explore all the interesting things surrounding him. It's all so exciting that he can't wait to take it all in.
Now that you know that, use it to your advantage. Begin to teach your dog, that the walk is going nowhere, until he calms down and stops pulling. Here's how to do it.
Laying the Ground Rules
Dogs are creatures of habit so they are very observant when it comes to routines. You've probably noticed that, even before you pick up his lead, your dog is already getting himself worked up. I'm sure you've wondered how he knows what's coming.
Most likely you have some pre-walk routine that you're not even aware of, but that your dog has picked up on.
In order to change your dog's behavior, you will have to address his pre-walk actions. Don't tolerate any acting up. If the dog barks or jumps up while you're trying to put his lead on, get him to sit and calm down, then try again.
At the start this can be extremely frustrating, but you need to hang tough. Things will improve.
As soon as the dog has settled down, put on the leash and leave the house immediately. If the dog gets out of hand again, tell him to sit, wait for him to settle, then continue.
Once outside, the dog will likely want to relieve himself. Let him. When he's finished, get straight into the walk, giving the dog little opportunity to go sniffing around and marking territory. In fact, don't allow any sniffing around at all for most of the walk. When you do allow it, make sure it's on your terms.
The Best Way to Stop Your Dog Pulling
Just about the worst thing you can do, if you want your dog to stop pulling, is to pull back. The right way to get him to stop is to show him that pulling has the opposite result to what he wants. Every time the dog pulls you should stop the walk, get the dog to sit and calm down, and only then, continue.
You'll find this very challenging at first, but stick with it and your dog will soon learn what he needs to do. He'll soon realise that pulling only succeeds in interupting his walk.
Once he breaks the pulling habit start getting him to walk beside, instead of in front of you. This will also help to curb the inclination to pull, especially if a cat suddenly darts across his path!
It is also a good idea to take some of his favorite treats along while he is in training. Give a treat whenever he is walking calmly beside you and you'll further re-enforce his good behavior.
by: Gary Walker
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