Love your dog but you’re sick of him pulling on the leash and dragging you everywhere? Are you wondering why he is doing this and how can you break him of the habit? Then you are right here. In this article you will learn what the most common causes of leash pulling are and how to train your dog to walk relaxedly at your side.
Why is my dog pulling on the leash?
There are various reasons why dogs pull on the leash. Some of them are:
- He’s excited and wants to get to his destination quickly.
- He has learned that he moves faster when he draws.
- He’s insecure and wants to be in control of the situation.
- He feels restricted or threatened by other dogs or people and wants to create some distance.
- He is bored or under-challenged and is looking for a change.
- He has too little workload or occupation and wants to get rid of his energy.
- He has not learned clear rules or boundaries.
- He doesn’t know what you expect from him or how to behave on the leash.
How can I stop my dog from pulling the leash?
In order to get your dog to stop pulling the leash, you need patience, consistency and positive reinforcement. Here are some tips on how to do it:
- Choose a suitable leash and harness for your dog. The leash should not be too long or too short and give the dog enough freedom of movement, but not too much slack either. The harness should fit well and not hurt or restrict the dog.
- Practice walking your dog on a leash in a quiet, low-distraction environment. Start with short stretches and slowly increase. Reward your dog every time he walks loosely on the leash or gives you his attention.
- Ignore or interrupt him if he pulls or gets upset. Stand still or change direction until he relaxes.
- Use clear signals and commands to show your dog what you want from him. For example, you can use a word like “foot” or “with me” to prompt him to walk alongside you. Or you can use a word like “stop” or “wait” to get him to stop or slow down. Explain the meaning of the signals to your dog by connecting them with a gesture or clicker and practice them over and over again. Reward him for each correct response to your signal.
- Offer your dog enough exercise and activity so he can use his energy wisely. Play with him, let him sniff, or choose a dog sport you both enjoy. In this way you can satisfy his hunting instinct or his play instinct and challenge him mentally and physically.
- Be consistent and keep at it. Don’t expect your dog to walk perfectly on the leash overnight. It takes time and practice for him to internalize the new behavior. Don’t give in to him when he pulls or tests you. Remain calm and composed and praise him for every improvement.
An overview of the best tips for walking on a leash:
- Choose a suitable leash and harness
- Practice in a quiet environment and reward positive behavior
- Use clear signals and commands
- Offer enough workload and employment
- Be consistent and keep at it
I wish you and your dog good health!
Yours, Sandra from DOG FIT by PreThis®
Every day we experience the wonders of nature with our dogs. This inspiration is the basis for our lives and our products. In our magazine we share with you our passion for these wonderful animals. Visit our socials and become part of the DOG FIT community.
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