14.05.2018

Dog Training, I do not teach a ‘heel’…

I have not taught our dog Trev to ‘heel.’
So, walking on the lead…
I have no issue at all with a dog walking in front of you when out on the lead/leash.
They simply should not be pulling on that lead (thus trying to get you to go in the direction they want to go *), the lead should be fairly loose. I keep a medium length leash. Not too long that I have to bring it in all the time to avoid obstacles but not a leash that is a restriction and a ‘pressure to fight against’ for the dog.
In essence, the more restriction you place on them, I feel the more dogs seem to pull.
Start the walk as you want it to continue.
Your dog should not be allowed to wear their lead until they are calm. Do not let them get over excited again, even if you have to wait.
‘Training A Dog To Stop Pulling**’ -
It’s a pretty big frustration INITIALLY but…..
You must immediately come to a stop when your dog is pulling*. You would be telling them pulling is ok if you let them continue, even if you only do this sometimes. Praise them and every so often offer a tasty treat when they come back by you (ideally with them looking up making eye contact with you). There is no need to pull back/tug on their lead.
*As part of this, do not as it appears in many dog parks, ‘be taken for a walk by your dog’ while off the lead. As in, simply follow all around where your beloved dog is going. You should be deciding where you are going and what you are up to etc.
**This is the greatest method I have found to stop a dog from pulling because the dog is figuring out the very real CONSEQUENCE ALL FOR THEMSELVES. They do not get anywhere when they lunge forward. You gain the control at the other end of the leash ;-) Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant, Dogs Best Friend.