How to stop a dog pulling on the lead.
Hey there, Good Dogs! We all love a good stroll with our furry faced homie, but when your pup decides to turn the walk into a game of tug-of-war, it can be a real challenge. But don't fret! With a bit of know-how and a whole lot of patience, you can teach your pup to walk like a pro on the lead, making your walks together a breeze.
Understanding Lead Pulling:
So, why do our pups pull on the lead anyway? Well, it's usually because they're curious bundles of energy who just can't wait to explore the big wide world. Plus, sometimes they're just eager to set the pace and lead the way. But fear not, we've got some tricks up our sleeves to help support them.
The Importance of Proper Kit:
First things first, let's talk gear. Make sure you've got a cool AF lead and a comfy harness or collar that fits your pup just right. You want your pup to be comfortable and secure so they can focus on the walk, not the uncomfortable Kit. Our multi-length lead is perfect for this!
Training Techniques:
Now, onto the fun part—training! Here are some tried-and-tested techniques to help your pup walk like a champ on the lead:
1. Start Slow: Begin your training in a calm, familiar environment with minimal distractions. Think garden, quiet street or even in your hallway to start. Baby steps, Good Dogs!
2. Reward your Dog: When your pup walks calmly by your side without pulling, shower them with rewards. If hanging by your side pays out the good stuff , they will soon work out it's a profitable place to be. Positive reinforcement is the name of the game!
3. Loose Lead, Happy Pup: Hold the lead loosely and continue to encourage your pup to walk beside you by giving them a snack for being there. If they start to pull, simply stop and wait for them to check in with you, when they do, offer a snack and continue.
4. Turn Walks into Games: Spice up your training sessions by turning them into fun games. Try paying each time they look at you or stopping to scatter snacks so they can have a sniff to chill out. Keep it fun!
5. Stay Patient: Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is mastering lead walking. Be patient with your pup and stay consistent with your training efforts. You've got this!
Troubleshooting Common Challenges:
And if you hit a bump in the road, don't worry! Here's how to tackle some common challenges:
1. Distracted by Everything: If your pup gets easily distracted by people, other dogs, or interesting smells, work on building their focus through short training sessions and plenty of rewards.
2. Reactivity on the Lead: If your pup tends to bark or lunge at other dogs or people, seek guidance from a professional trainer to support your dog and get to the root cause.
3. Lack of Motivation: If your pup seems disinterested in training, try switching up the snacks or toys you use as rewards to keep them engaged and excited.
Conclusion:
With a little patience, positivity, and some tasty snacks, you can teach your pup to walk like a pro on the lead. So, lace up those shoes, grab that WAGD lead, and get ready for some stress-free strolls with your bestie by your side. Happy walking.
Carly