Leash Training Fundamentals-What You Need To Know
June 9th, 2010
In this article we will cover leash training fundamentals, for those in need of dog training advice. Some dogs are very resistant to being controlled on a leash, yet there are times when it is imperative to utilize one.
You may have a dog that lives indoors and goes outside in a fenced yard to play and relieve himself. Because you rarely have a need to control your dog, you might have never trained him to walk on a leash.
There may be times you need to have Fido restrained, whether going to the pet store, walking on the beach, or going to the veterinarian. You may also decide to take your dogs on walks at some point to allow him to see more of his surrounding world.
Putting the Leash and Collar on the Dog
The best time to get your dog accustomed to wearing a leash and a collar is at the puppy stage, according to most puppy training advice.
When you take your dog somewhere, he could not be more pleased! Some dogs learn very early that leash means you are going somewhere with him. Your dog will be more in control than you are if he leaps and bounds around the room and you find it hard to attach his leash or collar .
You can calmly prepare your dog for the walk by teaching him to sit at your command, this is an important skill to teach. This is a common command and one you’ll find comes in handy many times during dog ownership.
Who’s Walking Whom
A common problem among dog owners is trying to ascertain who is walking whom. In case you don’t know, you are supposed to be the one in control. If you are being dragged down the street by your dog, something is wrong. Actually, it’s downright embarrassing.
This can be easy or difficult depending on the size and strength of the dog. If you start training your pet as a puppy, the whole scenario will go much better for you as the dog grows.
Every time your dog pulls on the leash, just stand still and stop walking. Give him a loud and firm “NO” if he pulls again. Once he stops pulling, command him to sit. The walk can resume once he sits and you are in control again. Repeat this no matter how many times it takes. He has to learn who’s in charge. Eventually he’ll learn that it is more fun to walk than sit.
The Proper Equipment
Just because they make some products for dogs does not mean they are humane or safe. Choke chains might stop your dog from pulling, but at what physical expense to the dog? You are not trying to choke him to death, you are trying to train him.
Some people might recommend a few other ways to train your animal, such as the dog shocking method, but remember this is not a humane way to train your dog.
A simple leader and harness is all that is needed to bring your dog under control without abusing him physically. A choke collar simply controls the dog’s neck area, whereas a harness is more stable and supports the dog’s entire body.
The leader then causes the dog to raise his head if he pulls, which does not hurt the dog, he just does not like it because it is slightly uncomfortable.
As a Last Resort, if you cannot bring your dog under control using these methods, your best course of action might be to join a dog training class or consult a professional for further dog training advice.
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