While some dogs make it look easy, proper leash behavior is actually quite a skill. Most dogs have some trouble with pulling, lunging, or crossing back and forth in front of you while on a leash. When you get a new puppy or have a dog that feels unmanageable on walks, it’s time to teach them some manners! The goal is to teach your pup to walk next to you with a slack leash (most of the time), to look to you for direction, and to quickly be called to attention.
Encouraging Leash Behavior You Can Be Proud Of
Before beginning, get your dog accustomed to the collar or harness you’ll walk them in. Most dogs will need a bit of time before they begin to tolerate the new equipment. If your dog is an especially bad puller, you may want to consider getting a Gentle Leader–this head harness is gentle as the name implies, and is great for discouraging pulling and having control over your dog. Put the gear on your pup for a few minutes at a time, give them a chance to get used to it, and reward them with treats when they ignore it.
Having a clicker or some sort of “correcting” sound to tell your dog that they’re about to get a treat will come in handy with leash training as well. You can read our previous article on clicker training to understand how to introduce Fido to this helpful reward tactic. Once you have your harness and clicker training, it’s time to get started.
If you struggle with your dog pulling straight ahead, show them that pulling won’t get them anywhere. Plant your feet and stand still, until they turn and come back to you. As soon as they return to you, click and give them a treat, then walk in the opposite direction. If they start pulling that way as well, repeat this process. You likely won’t get far during the first few training sessions, but they’ll soon learn that pulling isn’t effective. They’ll learn that the quickest way to get where they want to go, is to walk along with you. Plus, with you they get treats!
If your dog tends to lunge or fixate on other people and animals, it’s up to you to break their concentration. Once again, treats will be your best friend. Pay close attention to your surroundings while walking, and try to spot distractions before your pup does. When you notice one, call your pup so that they turn, face you, and sit. Keep their attention with treats and praise until the distraction has passed. They’ll learn that paying attention to you and learning proper leash behavior is much more rewarding than pulling or lunging after other things.
Does your dog weave and constantly trip you by walking in front of you? They think they are the leader on the walk–when in reality it’s you! The next time they pull or try to weave, simply make a 90 degree turn and walk into them (gently–you don’t want to actually hurt them!). You can walk in a square, in circles, or in figure eights. Whatever pattern you choose, keep turning towards your dog until they realize that they need to keep a close eye on what you’re doing. They’ll quickly understand that it’s best to pay attention and follow what you’re doing.
This blog is the first of a series revisiting some of the most critical skills for your dog to understand and master. If you are looking for a professional Sarasota or Bradenton area obedience school for your pet, call Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training today.
