Taking your dog out for a walk should be the high point of your day but if your dog turns into a sled dog the moment you put the leash on, it can feel more like a exercise routine than a stroll. Leash pulling is the number-one behavioral problem faced by dog owners. The good news? With patience, consistency, and the proper techniques, it’s completely solvable.
Leash training is important if you want to have enjoyable walks and using the proper dog training leash can make a significant difference in curbing pulling behavior. Select a strong no-pull dog training leash that provides you with improved control and encourages positive walking habits.
Below is a quick and easy guide to prevent your dog from pulling and make your walks enjoyable experiences for both you and your pet.
Why Dogs Pull the Leash
Prior to devising solutions, it is beneficial to know why your dog is pulling. Oftentimes, it is not disobedience but enthusiasm! The great outdoors contain smells, sights and sounds and your dog desires to experience them all. If they have learned through experience that pulling will take them where they want more quickly, the action will become habit.
1. Utilize the Proper Equipment
Your initial step is to examine your equipment. A common 4-6 ft leash and properly fitting harness (preferably front-clip) work nicely in leash training. Front-clip harnesses redirect your dog’s momentum back toward you without force, chastising the pulling behavior. Steer clear of using retractable leashes while training your dog is provided with too much leeway too early.
2. Educate “Be a Tree”
This easy method is perfect. The instant your dog tugs, halt walking. Do not tug back on the leash or scream but rather freeze in your tracks. When your dog comes back to check out what’s happening and the leash slackens up, praise and resume walking again. They will soon realize tugging does nothing but get them more behind where they began.
3. Utilize Treating and Praising
Positive reinforcement is your dog’s new BFF. Take high-value treats (something super delicious!) and reward your dog whenever they walk at your left or right without pulling. They will learn to connect walking nicely at your side with good rewards. And eventually, your dog will figure out that walking nicely rewards them and pulling does not.
4. Switch Directions Frequently
Keep your dog interested by being random. Each time they begin to take the lead, turn back or walk in a different direction calmly. It keeps your dog tuned in and shows them the importance of staying near you to know where you’re headed.
5. Train in Low-Distraction Environments
Begin your training in a peaceful location such as your backyard or quiet street. Gradually add distractions and level up as your dog gets better. This is aimed at establishing focus before incorporating the noise and activity of a park or busy sidewalk. Patience is the key
Keep in mind, leash walking doesn’t happen overnight. It may take a couple weeks or more before your dog understands it fully if they’ve been pulling since the beginning. Be consistent and patient and rejoice at the small successes along the way.
Leash pulling is annoying, but it is also a problem that can be solved. Using the proper techniques and a bit of patience, your dog can learn to walk calmly beside you. Not just will your arms feel the relief, but your walks will become a time both you and your dog actually look forward to. Happy walking!