The Simple, Foolproof Technique for Leash Training Your Dog
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.
And therein lies the secret to stopping your dog pulling. Start to teach your dog that, until he calms down and stops his pulling, he's going nowhere. Here’s how;
The Walk Starts Indoors
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.
The most likely explanation is that you have a pre-walk routine that you follow, a routine that he has become famiiar with.
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.
To begin with you may have to do this several times. It can be trying, but stick to your guns. It will pay off later on.
When the dog is calm, and you've attached the leash, leave the house right away. If the dog gets over-excited again, make him sit, and wait for him to calm, before proceeding.
Most times, the dog will want to relieve himself the minute he is outside. Let him do this. Once he's finished, that's it – no more marking or sniffing around – keep him focused on the walk. For large sections of the walk you should allow no sniffing around at all. Make sure that any exploration he does is on your terms.
The Best Way to Stop Your Dog Pulling
One thing you should never do, if you want to curb your dog's pulling, is to pull back. A better way is to teach the dog that by pulling, he gets the opposite result to what he wants. To achieve this, stop the walk every time the dog pulls. Get him to sit and be calm before you carry on.
At first, this will be incredibly trying. But dogs are quick learners and he'll soon make the connection. In a short while he will understand that his walk gets interrupted every time he pulls.
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!
One last tip – be sure to take a bag of treats with you while training your dog. Give him a treat when he obediently walks beside you and you'll see even quicker results.
There's plenty more about dog training tips, dog care, dog care and other helpful dog information at www.dogsanddogtraining.com
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