Enjoy walking on leash with your dog!

Spending time with our family and pet is meant be enjoyable. And likewise, should it be when we're with our dog and family together. So, why is it that some dogs seem to to pull, yank or tug at the leash when walking them? What techniques will help our dogs to have enjoyment with us when walking?

Simply put, we can make family outdoor outings an opportunity to train, praise and reward out dog. When you exit your home, your dog already knows that going out, he or she will experience something new and exciting. If your dog is already excitable, then you'll need to get your dog settled at the door and teach them to behave before they leave. This will help your dog remember you are the 'alpha' dog and following your lead results in a reward.

As you get ready to exit your home, perform a basic command. Then when you're out doing the walk, reinforce cue again.

Use family outdoor activities as a training opportunity for your dog

You'll notice that if you control the walk, your dog will focus on you rather than always be distracted by new stimuli.

Enjoy the time together, yet use the opportunity to train and reward your puppy or dog.

What to Keep In Mind

Dogs that successfully pull their owners over to other dogs, people, trees, etc. are actually being taught to pull because it is a rewarding behavior.
Dogs who have been rewarded for pulling need to re-learn how to walk on a leash.
It is very important to actually change the dog’s perception of what is a ‘rewarding behavior’
Punishing a dog, by yanking on the leash, does not accomplish this education or shaping for the dog.

Managing Reactivity with Other Dogs

When we increase the distance between our dog and another dog, this is negative reinforcement and may cause our puppy or dog to pull even more. To shape your dog to reduce the pulling, we need to introduce our dog with some controls. This can include turning away from the other dog, getting your dog into a new command and then rewarding our dog for the good behavior. Then when they display proper leash behavior, gradually moving closer to the other dog. The new stimulus of a playmate, while you still maintain alpha control, established the proper boundary.

As a family, take turns walking your dog on leash, with short training intervals. Each family member will need to consistently use the same boundary with your dog, so as not to confuse your puppy or dog.