Leash walking is considered a badge of honor for any individual that owns a dog. However, for individuals that wish to enjoy walks instead of engaging in a power struggle with their canine companions, mastering the “heel” command goes beyond being sufficient.
In this regard, we take a look at advanced techniques in leash training through which you can transform your rowdy pup into an elegant walking partner.
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Reasons Why Your Dog Pulls You When You Walk Him
Every reaction and gesture from your dog can have an occasion and a reason. So pulling while walking him on a leash can have a certain meaning.
First of all, it is important to use a good enough leash like Rocky Mountain Dog which is specially made not to hurt the dog but also the owner at the moment of pulling, and then it is also important to familiarize yourself with the reasons for pulling such as excitement since he goes for a walk after a long time, uncertainty about which direction he should move or because of some activity in the environment that frustrated him.
However, it is good to work with the dog to reduce such reactions, but also so that you can walk with him smoothly even without a leash.
What It’s Like to Walk With a Loose Leash
What makes a walk enjoyable is the basis of the “loose leash”. This does not imply that your dog should walk right by your side throughout. Instead, it means that there should be a bit of slack on the leash. This allows your furry friend to have some freedom in sniffing around while still staying close enough to you comfortably.
Here are some ways to develop that desired loose leash:
Opt for High-Value Rewards
Ditch the regular kibble. Instead, go for treats that make your dog go wild—whether it’s bits of cheese, hot dogs, or freeze-dried liver. Reward them generously every time they keep the leash slack, so they can start associating staying next to you with positive outcomes.
The ‘Stop and Go’ method
When they pull, they get no place! If your dog lurches ahead, stop walking altogether. Wait until the leash is slack before rewarding them and continuing to walk. Through this action, they learn that pulling stops the enjoyment.
Signals for ‘Leave It’ and ‘Let’s Go’
Educate your dog to detach from diversions upon hearing a ‘leave it’ signal. Upon compliance, provide them with a reward then use a ‘let’s go’ signal to motivate their movement once more.
Distracting Your Pet While Walking
The true trial lies in managing diversions. Here’s how to help your dog stay focused on you and the actual walk you are enjoying at the moment:
Gradual Exposure
If your dog reacts to barking dogs or zooming bikes, introduce both gradually under controlled conditions. Begin far enough that they are calm, reward their composure, and bring the stimuli closer at a pace comfortable for your dog.
Playing Games That Are Named After Titles is Boring
To get your dog to pay attention to you and focus on training “look at me” while you are walking with him. When he makes eye contact, reward him handsomely. This will help him understand that following your cues takes precedence over his distractions.
Predictability Leads to Boredom
Throw in a few curveballs by suddenly taking unexpected turns or changing the direction altogether— this will keep your dog engaged and paying attention to your lead.
Working Tactics You Can Use for Your Dog
For a more sophisticated promenade, those looking can turn their attention to ‘heeling.’ Here’s how to perfect this skill:
Enticement and Gratification
With a delectable treat held close by your leg, entice your dog by trailing it forward at a leisurely pace. As your canine companion complies by positioning itself beside your knee while walking, be liberal with your rewards. With time and understanding on their part, systematically do away with the lure.
Teach Your Dog the Touch Targeting Technique
Start instructing it to tap its nose to your hand. When they walk beside you, place your hand down occasionally. Reward them upon tapping it, thereby affirming their position in the “heel” stance.
Training Should Be Short and Focused
Heel teaching demands attention from your dog; maintain a positive attitude during training and increase the time gradually as they improve.
Create a Walking Process That Creates Enjoyment
The walk is not the only thing when it comes to leash training. It should be an enjoyable and carefree process for both parties, which is why we think you should know the following 3 things about walking:
Harness or Collar?
It’s recommended to use a well-fitted harness as it can help you control a strong puller without hurting their neck.
Exercise for the Mind
A physically tired dog will behave well during the walk, but providing mental stimulation before the walk (through play, short training sessions, or puzzle toys) can help tire your dog mentally and ensure better cooperation during the walk.
Patience Plus Consistency, In Short
Take note of it! That’s all there is to training—be patient, regular, and keep a positive attitude. You’ll have pleasurable strolls as your reward for many years; believe it or not, this is what walking your dog should be like.
Be Calm and Persistent in Working With the Dog
Each of these things that we have pointed out today requires calmness on the part of you, the owners. All that is required is to be fully involved in the process, to work and talk like a small child, and to be patient. Only if you are calm and patient will you be able to see the progress that is inevitable in that situation.
Daily work and a change in the dog’s habits will make walks and everyday life easier. Every dog can learn, just like every human, but it is important from whom it will learn and in what way. In this case, it’s you who should be 100% focused and take the right steps to the final change.
