Leash Training Can Be Simple

Your dog might like to go for walks, but you, on the other hand, dread it.  Your dog is always pulling you along so that you almost have to jog to keep up.  You worry that another dog might come into view on the other side of the street and you'll have a hard time keeping your dog in check.  Is there a book called Simple Leash Training, you ask? 

It's really not that hard if you know what to do.  Of course, it's best to teach your puppy to walk properly on a leash as young as possible, but you can still retrain an adult dog. 

Some puppies will like the leash because they learn it means going outside with you.  A few won't like it and will pull back and plant their rear on the floor. The key is to make it a positive, rewarding experience.  Sometimes it helps to start with attaching the leash,  immediately give the pup a treat for enticement, and taking him outside for a very short walk. 

Some puppies want to chew on the leash.  Of course, we know that chewing is a natural instinct for dogs.  Distract him when he starts this or he will be constantly trying to grab the leash in his mouth rather than concentrate on walking.  It's a bad habit, plus it looks silly when you're walking him.

A common way to train your dog not to pull on the leash is to use a reward system.  Have a pouch of small dog treats attached to the left side of your belt and hold the leash in your left hand.  Use the word "heel" while giving a short tug on the leash.  When the dog comes in line beside you, reach into the kibble pouch with your right hand and give him a treat. 

Keep repeating this pattern, for as long as necessary, until you have a dog who walks beside you without pulling.  Again, patience is required.

Once you and your dog have mastered the leash, the next training steps; " sit", "stay",  and "heel" become easier to teach because you will use the leash as a training aide.  The leash is your tool for further training so mastering it is important. 

Remember, most dogs learn best with a consistent owner, repetition in commands, and the use of rewards when they do the right thing.  If your dog is properly trained, you'll want to take him out for walks more often.  Pleasant walks make for great bonding between you and your dog, plus it's good exercise for both of you.