This is such a common problem and sometimes quite entertaining, especially if you see a youngster being pulled along by a strong dog. Or even a grown up being pulled for that matter. But you love walking your dog and it's really not a joke if he won't listen to your commands. To stop your dog from pulling on the leash you need to know a few tricks.
The reason why dogs pull at their leash is quite simple really, they love chasing things and if they see a cat, then there is no stopping them. They also get very excited with the idea of actually walking with you and can't contain themselves and hence they walk fast.
Start training your dog at an early age as to avoid bad behavior when it's time for his walks. Use an all weather harness as these will not choke your dog when you train. It is advisable to always use a harness and not a collar and chain. It really does cause harm to the dog's throat.
It is best to commence with training indoors and in the house where there are no distractions. You need undivided attention from your dog. He will not need his harness and leash right away because you are first going to teach him to follow you on your command. Firstly, hold out the palm of your hand and place a small object in the center. Let your dog see this and let him touch it with his nose when you say the command word "touch". Once you get him to touch the object with his nose, then walk away for a few steps and let him follow you. Hold the object at a height which is comfortable for him to touch with his nose. He must now follow you and touch the object with his nose and stay behind you every time you walk further. Give lots of confirming hugs or rubs as he will now identify what you want from you. This will take a few lessons with lots of patience and love from your side.
Do take into consideration that you are teaching your dog a completely new and strange behavior and it will take a while before he gets what you want from him. Persevere and you will be rewarded as well.
Once he understands then you can start putting a harness on him and doing the same command indoors. This should go quickly. Gradually take him outside and let him practice in the garden. Monitor his behavior and if you are happy, then take him out onto the road or into a park. He should now know that when his harness is on he must walk next to you or behind you.
Whatever program you choose to stop your dog from pulling on the leash, you have to be consistent, patient and reward for correct behavior.
Author Remco van Reenen is an expert on dogtraining and on his website hondentraining.nu you can find all sorts of tips. You can also get lots of accessories to make training your dog easy in the section puppytraining
categories: pulling on the leash,leash training,puppy training,dog training,dogs,pets,animals
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