If you’re trying to contain reindeer that are running away while strolling your pet, then you’re not all alone. The pulling of the leash is a frequent problem for dogs as well as their pet owners. So here are some helpful tips to help train your dog to walk with a loose leash, which will hopefully allow for more enjoyment for you and your dog.
Keep Them Harnessed and Reined In
You shouldn’t put a draft horse’s harness on the back of a Shetland pony The same principle applies to fitting a harness and a leash to your pet. Be sure to use the right harness to fit the size of your pet. You can determine the size of the harness you should purchase by measuring your dog’s weight as well as the size of its girth. The harness shouldn’t cause the shoulders or neck to swell and it should be able to fit 2 fingers in between the strap and the dog’s body. A harness is the most secure option for dogs who are beginning to walk with a loose leash. This is because a leash tied to a collar may cause your pet to choke if they are able to pull the leash.
When your dog is learning leash etiquette and you’re training him to behave, it’s best to use shorter leashes so that you can have greater control. Be aware of your height and the dog’s size to ensure you’re both in a comfortable position when walking. Once your dog is proficient at walking on a loose leash, you can apply the longer leash in the event that there aren’t any restrictions on the length of the leash you’re walking. For instance, certain nature trails restrict the length of leashes to 6 feet.
Stop. Go. Stop. Go (and Repeat).
If you’ve confirmed whether you’ve got the right harness and leash, it’s time to address the issue of pulling. It’s recommended to start your training indoors or at a location with fewer distractions (e.g. or a squirrel that is running by). Begin with your dog standing close to you with a leash that is loose. Give them a reward if they remain in your presence. Move ahead one step. If you can see them “stay” without pulling, offer them a second reward. Continue to repeat the procedure around the home and increase the number of steps you’ll take, reward them when their leash remains loose.
If your dog begins pulling, stop the movement then wait for the moment you can feel the leash relax slightly, and then be sure to praise them immediately. It is important for them to understand that a leash that is loose is ideal and they’re rewarded when it remains in a loose state. If they return to you, show them many praises and reward them, and then begin walking. If they begin pulling, stop them and then repeat the reward procedure. When they’ve become comfortable walking through the house on an unrestricted leash, let them go outdoors where there are many more distractions. It’s possible repetitiously repeat this “stop, go” process over and over, but you hope they’ll soon understand that a leash loose can bring rewards.
Who’s a Good Dog?
Once your dog begins walking with no pull it’s vital to continue rewarding them for their good behavior. Don’t only beg them to pull, and then stop -Also reward them when they’re walking with you in a good manner. This reinforces the idea that a loose leash can lead to lots of love.
If your dog is begging to take a moment and take a sniff of the roses, the mailbox, or another dog to sniff, allow them to. Dogs make use of scent to comprehend their surroundings as well as in turn, to “talk” or send “messages” to each other. This is a natural behavior and is something you should encourage on your walks, except when one dog exhibits indications or signs of aggression or distress.
As with all undesirable habits, pulling your leash can be a long time to get over. With perseverance with patience, a positive attitude, and praise and encouragement, you’ll never be forced to walk around in circles. If you continue to struggle with pulling your leash Ask your vet for suggestions or talk to an expert trainer.
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