I think the picture really sums this one up! So many dogs have trouble walking on lead. Lead walking is a complicated skill with a lot of moving parts, so its no wonder dogs have so much trouble with it! There are just about as many rules to lead walking that there are breeds of dogs, and to make things even more confusing different people require different things from their dogs.
Lets take one set of rules and break it down for easy training.
1. Dogs should walk on the inside. Many people want their dogs always on the left, or the right, or maybe you walk two dogs at the same time! But while training a dog make it simple, it doesn’t matter what side you choose, or if you decide your dog should always walk on the inside (so as not to be head on to oncoming vehicles). The important thing here is to remain consistent, if the dog switches sides, then stop encourage back to the correct side and continue.
2. Dogs should keep the leash loose. This is often confused with heeling, which is a close to your side walk, only really necessary in short instances like when walking around broken glass on the street, or obedience competition!
3. Dogs should not stop every few seconds to sniff or pee!
4. Dogs should ignore or only show a mild interest in other dogs or people while walking. They should not lunge, bark or drag their owner down the street to say hi or start a fight with another dog.
5. Dogs should look at their walker when you say their name and respond to basic cues on the walk.
Easier said than done right? Especially number 4! Also keep in mind that some dogs will respond more quickly training than others, this isn’t a failure in you or the fault of your dog. Keep it positive and you will see a difference.
1. Use a clicker to mark and reward behaviors you like while walking. Break down each behavior to it’s easiest level.
- he looks at you when you say his name
- finds the heel position or loosens the lead.
2. Use a food lure to distract from exciting stimulus like another dog, a jogger, a bike or a loud oncoming truck. Give the treat as you pass the stimulus so as to create a positive association AND an alternate behavior at the same time!
3. Set up pee stations along your walk, plan for where you will let your dog sniff or pee and jog past the areas he wants to stop and dawdle that are not the location you previously decided on.
4. Keep the training walks on a time limit, if you set a distance and don’t make it you will likely get frustrated. Instead set yourself a time limit (like 30 minutes) and then walk 15 minutes one direction and 15 minutes back.
5. Be consistent and patient, if you don’t feel like training one day thats fine but keep in mind that your dog will learn faster the more consistent you are.
