Make That Walk Pleasant For Both Of You!by Aimee Amodio | More from this Blogger 30 Aug 2006 12:53 PM If you don't have fun walking your dog, you won't want to do it very often. It's a simple equation! A dog who drags you around, doesn't behave, and won't listen isn't a very fun walking partner. But what can you do?
- Use the right collar. Choke chains and prong collars may be useful for training but may not be comfortable for a walk. Try a harness or a gentle leader, which change the area of pull; a regular collar puts pull on the neck while a harness puts the pull at the chest and a gentle leader turns the head rather than yanks the neck.
- Use positive reinforcement. Hold a treat in your hand -- your dog will stick close to get the treat! Offer the treats randomly, so your dog pays attention to where you are and sticks close.
- Keep the leash at the same length at all times. Your dog needs to learn that he gets only so much distance to play with. You may want to thread your leash through a belt, leaving your hands free for offering treats and cleaning up messes.
- Hold your ground. If your dog starts to pull, stop walking. Dig in and don't move until your dog gives you some slack on the leash. Your dog must learn that the walk will only continue on YOUR terms, not his. As soon as your dog backs up a little, you can resume walking.
- Talk to and praise your dog throughout the walk. Any time your dog displays good behavior -- slack on leash, staying at your side, not pulling -- use the same praise words. Your dog will learn to associate good behavior with praise.
Remember that a walk should be fun for both the dog AND the owner! This is a great chance for you to bond with your pup and get some exercise and fresh air. With a well mannered pup, you can enjoy the experience of a walk together!
collars, leashes, leash training, walking
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