Walking a dog that pulls on their harness can turn an enjoyable activity into a frustrating challenge. Thankfully, teaching your dog to walk politely on a leash is possible with a combination of the right tools and training techniques.
Why Do Dogs Pull?
Dogs pull for several reasons, such as excitement, excess energy, or the simple desire to explore their environment. Pulling is often self-rewarding because it allows them to reach their goal faster, so breaking this habit requires consistent training.
Steps to Stop Pulling
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Choose the Right Equipment:
- Opt for a no-pull harness with a front clip. These harnesses gently redirect your dog’s momentum without causing pain or discomfort.
- Avoid retractable leashes, as they encourage pulling by giving the dog more freedom.
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Teach Loose Leash Walking:
- Start at Home: Practice leash skills indoors or in your yard, rewarding your dog for staying near you.
- Reward the Right Behavior: Hold treats at your side and reward your dog for walking beside you with a loose leash.
- Change Direction: When your dog pulls, stop walking and change direction. Reward them for following you. This teaches them that pulling gets them nowhere.
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Use Positive Reinforcement:
- Reward calm, focused behavior during walks. Carry high-value treats to keep your dog’s attention on you rather than distractions.
- Praise them when they walk without tension on the leash.
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Manage Energy Levels:
- Ensure your dog has a chance to burn off excess energy before walks. A quick game of fetch or tug-of-war can help.
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Practice Short Sessions:
- Keep training sessions brief to prevent frustration. Gradually increase the length of your walks as your dog improves.
Consistent training, the right tools, and plenty of patience will help transform your dog into a polite leash walker.
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