A few things to remember
– Until your furry friend knows how to walk without pulling on their leash, consider all walks to be training sessions.
– Try to tire your dog out a little before their walk. This will help stop them from being overexcited.
– Always take treats on every walk to encourage good behaviour.
– Keep up a quick pace; this will give your pup less chance to sniff around and stop them from pulling up every two seconds.
– Make sure your four-legged friend is in a calm state before your walk.
Stop & go technique
Before you start using this technique, your dog must already know how to sit on command. Start walking your dog in the intended direction and the second they start pulling on their lead, stop dead in your tracks. Call them back to you and tell them to sit. Once they cooperate, give them a treat. Continue this process until the dog realises every time they pull on their lead, the fun stops! Also, remember to continuously give your dog treats whenever they’re not pulling throughout the walk, to encourage this good behaviour.
Reward technique
This technique requires a lot of treats, so be sure to come loaded with a full pack of Schmackos before you begin. Start your walk with your dog by your side. Hold a treat about 10 centimetres out in front of their nose and begin your walk. If they continue to walk by your side, feed them treats every 10 steps or so. If they start pulling, stop immediately and call them back. Tell them to sit and give them a treat once they cooperate, then start the process again. As they begin to get better, extend the amount of steps between treats until you barely need them at all.
Still not responding?
Not all dogs respond to treats. You might want to consider purchasing a choke, pinch or prong collar, or any head halter instead of the collar you’re currently using. Alternatively, you can take them to your local dog trainer for some professional help.
Is your dog acting strangely?
If you’re dog has injured itself from pulling too hard, begins displaying fearful body language, becomes reluctant to walk or starts showing aggressive behaviour, you should take them to your local vet as soon as you can.
