{Leash Training Tricks and Suggestions
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.
In most cases, the dog isn't being dominant, or trying to make you mad. It's just that there are so many interesting sights, sounds and smells to explore. He can't wait to see what's up ahead, so he pulls to get there faster.
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;
Teaching the Rules of the Walk
A dogs life is governed by familiar routines, so they take note of everything that happens around them. You've probably noticed how as walk time approaches your dog begins to get excited – even before you pick up his leash. I'm sure you've asked yourself how he could possibly know.
The probable answer is that he's picked up on some routine you go through in preparing for the walk. A routine you probably aren't even aware of yourself.
If you want to improve your dog's behavior on the walk you should start right here. Don't put up with any misbehavior. Specifically, don't allow any boisterous behavior – barking, running, jumping up. Get him to calm down before attaching the lead. If he get's out of hand, stop, get him to sit, then start over.
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.
The dog will likely want to relieve himself as soon as he's outdoors. Allow him to do so. Once he’s done, control and limit the amount you allow him to sniff around and mark territory. Ideally you do not want to allow this at all for large sections of the walk. Allow him to explore only when you say so.
Stop That Pulling
If you want to stop your dog pulling, you need to stop pulling back. The way to control this behavior is to teach the dog that pulling has a negative rather than positive result. When he pulls, stop the walk and get him to sit. Only carry on with walking when he has calmed down.
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!
As with all dog training, positive methods work best, so remember to always carry a bag of treats with you. Reward him every time he walks calmly on the leash and you'll see much faster results.
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