14.07.2018

Dog Training, Pulling on the Lead/Leash

I have no issue at all with a dog walking in front of you when out on the lead.
Walking on the lead…
Your dog should not be pulling on the lead (thus trying to get you to go in the direction they want to go *) so then the lead should be fairly loose.
I keep a medium length lead. Not too long that I have to bring it in all the time to avoid obstacles but not a lead that is a restriction and a ‘pressure to fight against’ for the dogs.
In essence, the more restriction you place on them, I feel the more dogs seem to pull.
Start the walk as you wish 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 must 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 acceptable 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.
There is no need to pull back/tug on their lead in the process.
*Also 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 your dog is figuring out the very real CONSEQUENCE ALL FOR THEMSELVES. They do not get anywhere when they lunge forward.
Then you gain the control at the other end of the leash ;-) Selina McIntyre, Dog Behavioural Consultant, Dogs Best Friend.