Dog | Training | Leash Training
Training to Stop Pulling on Walks
Choosing the Right Leash
The Leash
As I have mentioned in a previous article, I have had a lot of trouble with my dogs pulling on their leashes on walks. I knew that my leash was not helping the situation, so I bought several types of leashes. They were all the types of leashes that clipped onto the dog collar and they did not help at all. I brought my dog, Peaches, to formal training and the trainer recommended a different leash, a rope slip-lead.
As soon as I put the new slip-lead leash on Peaches, I noticed a difference in her walking. The new leash stopped the choking and gagging, since the pressure and movements were felt more by her. The old leash was encouraging the pulling, while this new leash made Peaches more aware of her actions and gave me more control.
Placement of the Leash
The leash is supposed to be placed through the head, sitting under the neck and right behind the ears. The fastening piece is moved down to secure the tightness of the leash. It should not be made too tight, so make sure you can fit two fingers in and that it is sitting around your dog’s neck comfortably.
In Action
The leash was NOT an immediate fix. I had to work with the effectiveness of the leash to deal with the pulling. I was taught that as soon as I felt her pull the leash, I would need to walk backward and then forward. She would realize my movements and move back and then forward. We would then stop and once the leash was loose, meaning that she is not pulling anymore, I rewarded her. Then we start moving and I would see if she made the decision to walk with me or pull again. If she pulled in a wrong direction, sometimes a gentle tug on the leash would help to redirect her. Otherwise, we would start the moving back process again.
The training is quite tedious and takes a lot of patience, but I prefer this to the annoying leash pulling walks and my sore, blistered hands. Also, she is getting better and better each day!
Not One Leash Fits All
I am not suggesting this leash as a solution to your dog’s leash pulling problems. This is based on my experience and what has worked for my dog. If this leash is put on or used incorrectly, it can do more harm than good. Speak to a professional trainer about your dog’s struggles and see what they suggest.
Good luck with training! Remember to be patient with your dog and yourself.
