Walking your dog should be a pleasant experience, not a tug-of-war! If you find yourself being pulled along every time you take your dog out, it’s time to teach them how to walk properly on a lead. Here's how you can turn your walks into enjoyable outings.

Preventing Pulling

  • Focus and Energy: Ensure your dog pays attention to you during the walk. A lack of focus often leads to pulling. Try to walk with energy and purpose to make yourself more interesting to your dog. If you're boring, well...the may find the walk a bit boring.
  • Unpredictable Movements: Use a short lead and make sudden stops and turns. This teaches your dog to pay attention to your movements.
  • Back to Basics: Reinforce the heel command. In a distraction-free area, use treats to encourage your dog to walk by your side and reward them with a treat when they do.

Stop Constant Sniffing

  • Type of Lead Matters: Avoid using retractable leads or harnesses that don't offer head control. These can encourage wandering and excessive sniffing.
  • Teach Sniffing Etiquette: Allow your dog to sniff, but designate specific times for it. For instance, walk to a destination with purpose, allow time for sniffing, and then walk back.

Addressing Pausing During Walks

  • Change the Dog's Mind: If your dog stops and refuses to move, try to distract them with a whistle or a squeaky toy. Do not reward the stopping behavior.
  • Physical Prompt: A gentle tap on the back or tail can break their focus and encourage them to start moving again.

Lead Walking Equipment

  • Collars and Harnesses: Choose the right equipment for your dog. Avoid tightening collars or harnesses, as they can be uncomfortable. For strong dogs, consider a harness with front and back rings.
  • Appropriate Leads: Use three to four-foot training leads. Avoid retractable, slip leads, or long lines for training purposes.

Teaching Puppies Lead Etiquette

  • Early Introduction: Introduce your puppy to the lead as soon as possible. Start inside the house and gradually move to the garden and then outside.
  • Red Light-Green Light Game: If your puppy pulls, stop immediately. This teaches them that pulling will not get them where they want to go.

Training Steps

  1. Start Position: Hold the lead in one hand and treats in the other. Lure your dog to your side, facing the same direction, and reward them.
  2. Moving Forward: Let your dog sniff the treats, then raise your hand to your shoulder, say your cue word (e.g., “with me”), and take a step forward. Reward your dog for following.
  3. Building Duration: Gradually increase the number of steps before rewarding. If your dog pulls, stand still and lure them back to the starting position with a treat.

Troubleshooting and Top Tips

  • Consistency is Key: Be consistent with your training. The same rules should apply every time your dog is on the lead.
  • Manage Excitement: Lower their excitement levels before walks. Ask your dog to sit calmly before putting on the lead and opening doors.
  • Daily Walks: Regular walks are essential for your dog’s health. Consistent walking helps them stay calm and focused during walks.

Training your dog to walk well on a lead is a gradual process that requires patience and consistency. Remember, it’s not just about the physical exercise but also about mental stimulation and bonding with your Sidekick. Happy walking!