Leash Pulling
When you walk your dog, are they constantly straining at the leash? As you’re going down the street, are they pulling you along so you feel jarred and like you’re not in control of the walk?
This is a very common problem between dogs and their owners. Fortunately, with some strategic leash pulling training, you and your pup can enjoy calm, centered walks.
Why Do Dogs Pull on the Leash?
First, it’s important to understand your dog’s motivation behind pulling so much. Simply put, dogs are faster than we are. They also (usually, depending on the dog) have more energy. Put these two together and you have a recipe for leash pulling.
The world is an exciting place for your pup, and they want to explore it at a much faster pace than you can walk. Being tethered to a slow human isn’t natural for dogs, who want to engage with their environment at their own speed.
Straining against the leash is also a learned behavior. If you take even one step forward while your dog is pulling, they learn that pulling works to get them where they want to go.
Lastly, the environment in which you walk your dog is frankly more exciting than you are. That’s where leash pulling training comes in — you have to be more exciting to your pup than what’s around them.
Notice one reason for leash pulling we didn’t mention: dominance. Your dog is not straining against his leash because he’s trying to assert dominance or be the “alpha” of the pack. Your dog walking in front of you is not him being the “leader” or “in control.” Your pup can absolutely walk in front of you and you’re still in charge, as long as the leash is loose!
How Do I Stop My Dog from Pulling?
There are many different methods on the internet to stop this behavior. From the “become a tree” method to the “turn and walk the other direction” method, suggestions to stop leash pulling differ. There are also various harnesses on the market that advertise themselves as “no pull.”
However, equipment like harnesses or head halters should only be used to assist with leash pulling training. They’re not a full-time solution. Only consistent positive reinforcement on every single walk, for the entire walk, will be successful.
Stop Your Dog Pulling with K9 Training Institute
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