Stop Your Dog From Pulling You Down The Street
Amy Dunphy
From the first day of life on a leash, most dogs learn that by
pulling on it, they get to where they want faster. Its the
behavior that so many dog owners struggle with. Its a simple
solution - just stop walking. Although, somehow your dog doesn't
learn its just that simple. Or maybe we aren't teaching it
effectively enough. Or say, you have taught your dog that, except
when they want to sniff the fire hydrant, or meet your neighbors
dog, or chase a squirrel.
I have decided as an owner, that the only way to walk my dogs is
by using either a gentle leader or a gentle leader easy walk
harness. I still enforce the rules - the dog pulls, I stop. The
dog pays attention and walks with me, I move forward and often
give treats and praise for doing so.
The reason I use and recommend these two items is simple,
prevention and safety. If the dog does pull, they don't continue
to go forward, they are instead turned around and facing me
again. It helps me stay consistent.
The Gentle Leader is a great tool. The fit is a bit tricky and
most dogs fight it when they get it on - EW something is on my
FACE! Ignore it. If you just keep going, stay happy and reinforce
them not pawing at it, it will go away. Some have argued that the
Gentle Leader can cause damage to their head / back. I think this
is only true if the dog is running and you snap the leash. Do not
use the tool this way. I prefer a shorter leash and never yank or
pull the leash. Instead, just stop, so their head is guided, not
forced back around.
The tool I recommend and use is the Gentle Leader Easy Walk
Harness. Its an easy fit, the dog doesn't mind it, and it works
really well. There is no issue of the dog escaping, and no damage
since you are controlling the body.
Amy Dunphy, CPDT Owner of The Dog Trainer Search Find dog
training information, advice, tools and supplies
http://www.dogtrainersearch.com/
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