Overcoming Leash Pulling
When your dog pulls while on a walk, you may ask several questions. Am I too slow? Are they too excited? Are they trying to establish dominance over me and take over? While the first two questions may be factual, your dog is not pulling because they want to achieve dominance. They simply want to explore and cover a larger area than us humans typically do. The only surefire way to stop this behavior is to avoid walking altogether, but that is not something that is recommended. There are too many benefits to getting outside with your loved ones to let a behavior such as pulling get in the way.
So how do we fix it while still going outside and getting fresh air? We will cover a variety of options to try to reduce the amount of pulling that is being experienced and eventually, with practice, eliminate it all together. Dogs have a natural tendency to push in the opposite direction against pressure that’s being applied to certain parts of their body. If you’re struggling with your dog pulling, try changing up the path you take. Be sure to identify a few smelly places along the way where your dog is allowed to stop, sniff, and leave his calling card. Not only is this a great way to reward his good behavior, but processing all the smells he takes in is great mental stimulation, too.
Most importantly: do not restrict the dog further. We all know even if a dog is choking themselves they will continue to do so if they are adamant enough to get to where they want to be. Instead, stop and turn the other direction. As soon as your furry friend realizes they aren’t getting where they want to go by pulling they will stop to see what is holding them back. Reverse direction whenever he begins to pull. Stop and say “let’s go” or “this way” as you begin walking in another direction. Give praise when he obeys your request and joins you at your side. At this point it will be safe to resume the walk but be prepared to repeat again as necessary.
Consistency is key here as it will become noticeable if there are times you are asking for good behaviors and other times you are ignoring them allowing them to drag you along. Although it may be tempting, don’t yell or yank the leash to punish him when he begins to pull. Instead, the next time he begins to pull, stand still for a few minutes. Don’t resume walking until he stops, comes and puts slack on the leash. Use treats to reward his progress. He’ll quickly learn that being on the leash is fun as well as delicious! Slowly reduce the number of treats you give him as he becomes better behaved on the leash, but never forget to praise.
Dogs want attention just like we do. Put away your own distractions. Many dogs pull because the things that are stimulating them are more interesting than what is going on right next to them. Put your phone away and engage with your fur friend. Show your dog how you expect them to behave and actively engage in the walk. Making sure you’re in the right mindset before starting your walk is as important as the equipment you use, the reward you give, and the consistency of your training.
If you are struggling to begin with there are tools that you have at your disposal. There are a number of harnesses designed to help prevent the amount of pulling being done. No harness is going to be able to stop pulling all together but it can slow them down to help you regain control. When choosing a harness, try it on and make sure that it is not causing the dog discomfort. That is not their purpose and it should not put any sort of pressure on joints or the neck. A chest harness enables the leash to attach to a clip on your dog’s chest instead of to the collar around his neck and will help prevent pulling.
Regular dog walking is one of the many pros to caring for our friends. That can quickly become more of a task than a hobby when he or she just won’t stay near you despite your best effort. Be patient. The joy that rapidly disappears can come back and you can enjoy daily walks with your four legged friend again. If behavior issues are more of a concern, don’t be ashamed to look into / hire a dog trainer. Sometimes we all need a little help getting on the right path. One thing is for certain though: It is possible to enjoy your walks again. With patience and consistency, you and your dog will enjoy your daily walks. Walking is an activity that provides positive, mental, physical, and emotional benefits for both humans and canines. Happiness is a contagious mindset that can benefit everyone.
