Walking on a leash is not a natural behavior for dogs. It is a skill that takes time and patience on the part of the owner for the dog to learn and then be good at. Leash training is one of the basic skills to teach your new canine family member.
Dogs pull while on a leash because being outside is exciting! When you and your furry friend go on a walk, they are being exposed to a multitude of different stimuli that is (no offense) more interesting than you. As your pup is inundated with stimuli, they stop focusing on you and start pulling to get to whatever has caught their attention. Whether it’s a squirrel, another dog, or other people, it is up to the owner to teach the dog that pulling is not okay.
Why Proper Leash Training is Important
Leash training might seem like no big deal, but there are many unfortunate incidents that can be avoided with proper leash behavior. Having a dog that walks calmly on a leash can prevent injuries to both you and your dog. If your pup were to pull their leash out of your hand, they could run out into the street, meet an unfriendly dog, or get lost. If you keep a firm grip on the leash, there is the chance your dog might pull you down. They are often stronger than they look!
When you are relaxed and confident in your well-behaved dog, you will be able to walk longer and further while strengthing the bond between you and your dog.
The end result of leash training should be that your dog looks to you for guidance and direction on where to go. You have to hold their attention in the face of millions of distractions. That might sound tough, but Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training is here to help.
How to Get Your Dog to Walk on a Leash
A comfortable dog is a happy dog, so before anything else make sure your pup is used to wearing her collar/harness and leash. Leave them on when you’re inside playing with her and giving her treats to show her that they are a good thing. You may wish to look into training programs. Three and four-week programs are fantastic options for the dog that has a hard time not reacting inappropriately to other dogs or people when on a walk.
Here are some tips for dog owners who are committed to helping their dog to stop leash pulling.
-
Keep calm and carry on. Your dog can tell when you are frustrated or angry. In turn, they will be less willing to listen to you if they are scared or anxious.
-
Rewards are your best friend. Give your pup a treat and some positive attention anytime they are next to you or look at you when on a walk. Training treats or pieces of your dog’s food make great rewards for this purpose.
-
Get the right accessories. Harnesses with a front clip (usually centered on the chest) are great for teaching your dog not to pull on the leash.
Above all, remind yourself that your pup wants to make you happy and learn from you. All it takes is some time, patience, and yummy treats to make your dog a leash-walking pro.
If you need assistance, call the experts at Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training. We are ready and able to help your dog to learn the proper behaviors to make their lives safe and happy.
