Walking your dog on a leash can be a rewarding experience during dog training. It often comes with challenges, particularly when your dog is pulling ahead. Dogs pull on leashes for different reasons, and this behavior can be particularly common in adolescent and adult dogs who were allowed to pull as puppies. However, with the right approach, walking your dog doesn’t have to be a frustrating or exhausting task.
Why Dogs Pull on Leashes
One of the main reasons why dogs struggle during leash walking is that once the leash is tightened, they no longer need to pay attention to you. The tension on the leash acts like a direct line of communication with you and your furry friend. It allows them to sense your every move and intention. This frees up their senses—particularly their nose, ears, and eyes—to explore their surroundings without needing to stay connected with you. Moreover, for many dogs, pulling on the leash can be enjoyable and self-reinforcing. The challenge of testing their limits can become a fun workout. However, leash-pulling is generally unacceptable and can even be dangerous. Once the leash is tight, it becomes much harder to control your dog, which can lead to unsafe situations.
Start Training Early in Puppyhood
It’s much easier and smarter to begin leash training with a young puppy indoors. Practicing leash manners inside your home, where there are fewer distractions, allows you to teach your puppy not to pull on the leash in a controlled environment. Continue practicing indoors until your puppy can walk without pulling. Once your puppy has mastered indoor walking, you can gradually introduce them to the outdoors. Starting early not only helps you avoid future issues, but it also prevents the frustration of dealing with a stronger, more determined dog as they get older. Remember, dogs have incredible strength—the canine weight-pulling record is around 10,000 pounds. In just a few months, your average dog could have the power to pull a group of people!
Stay Calm and Avoid Jerking the Leash
Using a leash is necessary for safety, especially in areas where leash laws are enforced. However, when a dog pulls, many pet parents pull back or jerk the leash to regain control. While this may seem like a natural response, it’s not an effective training method and can be unpleasant for both you and your dog. Jerking the leash can create a negative association with walking, making it less enjoyable for your dog. Instead, focus on calm, consistent training techniques that you may not need to do any physical corrections.
Red Light, Green Light: A Fun Training Method
The “Red Light, Green Light” game is an excellent way to work on impulse control during walks. Start by standing still with your pup on a leash, holding the end loop firmly with both hands close to your body. Pay full attention to your pup, but ignore any antics at the other end of the leash. Eventually, your pup will sit or lie down, which might take a few minutes, till then have your patience!
When your pup finally sits or lies down, immediately praise them with a “Good dog,” and offer a treat. Then, say “Let’s Go,” take one step forward, and stop again. This single step will likely excite your pup, causing them to lunge forward. Again, remain still and wait until they sit or lie down before rewarding them. Over time, increase the number of steps you take before stopping. Eventually, your pup will learn to walk beside you without pulling, and they will sit automatically when you stop.
Taking the Dog Training Outdoors
Image-Source : images.saymedia-content
Once your pup has mastered indoor leash walking, it’s time to take the training outside. Start with short laps around the block. Dogs often pull when leaving home because they are excited to explore, but they may lag on the way back as their energy wanes. If your pup pulls on the way out, turn around and head back home to reset. You can also practice the “Red Light, Green Light” game in your yard or on the sidewalk until your pup is less distracted by the outside environment. While the first walk around the block might take some time, the subsequent laps will become easier as your pup gets the hang of it.
Don’t Forget to Allow Sniff Breaks While training your dog
While it’s important to teach your dog to heel, it’s also crucial to allow them time to stop, sniff, and relieve themselves. These “sniff breaks” are not only enjoyable for your dog but also provide mental stimulation. When it’s time for a break, give your dog a little extra leash to explore. After a few minutes, call them back to your side, have them sit, and then continue the walk.
Consistency is Key
Walking your dog on a leash without pulling needs patience and consistency, but the effort is well worth it. By starting training early, remaining calm, and using positive reinforcement techniques like the “Red Light, Green Light” game, you can turn your walks into enjoyable outings for both you and your dog. And remember, giving your dog time to sniff and explore is just as important as teaching them to walk politely by your side.
