How do I Train My Dog to be a Better Walker?
We’re all investing more time at home with our pets nowadays. Hopefully, this includes more walks to provide the exercise our pups need. Even during stress, walking with your dog should be fun. When you walk as a unit, it’s a treat for both of you. But when “strolling your dog” is your “dog walking you,” it becomes a task. It takes just a little system and a few coaching tips to make “walkies” more enjoyable.
- Use a short restraint
We use a 4′ to 6′ lead for our pup. A long lead gets in the way and places your dog too far away. The new leads in the marketplace offer extra-strong options and have a built-in traffic handle for extra control. Retractable leashes provide limited supervision and can be quite risky near traffic or in a busy area.
- Practice on a heel clue when inside
Return to basics and practice on heel conduct at home. Stand next to a step or wall. Next, guide your dog with a treat next to you, reducing the gap and rewarding him when he’s standing by your side. If you find your pup is creeping forward, try placing a box in front of you. This will prevent him from stepping forward.
- Practice indoors
When walking, there are many things for your canine to sniff and notice. Prior to going outside, start by practicing short walks with a heel while indoors. Once out, lower your expectations, as there’s an otherworld of distractions for your pup.
4 Consider a no-pull harness
If you’ve trained to heel and worked on your leash techniques, but things aren’t getting better, consider a no-pull harness. An excellent no-pull harness permits you to clip the lead in front, which helps redirect the pups’ movement when he begins to pull. While this won’t stop pulling, it will aid in your coaching.
- Schedule a time for walking
If you’re in a hurry or stressed during your walk, your dog will sense it and be less able to relax and focus. Set a time for the two of you to wander together with no outside interferences, including phones.
By including training time inside while at home, then reinforcing the conduct during your practice sessions, you will see a change. Each dog is different, and they learn at their own pace, so remain patient. However, with a positive attitude and the right equipment, your dog can become a great leash-walker!
