Loose leash walking with your dog
This may just be one of the most common things dog owners research on the Internet. You’ll find ‘many’ ways to approach loose leash walking. Rather than describe all those approaches in this brief blog let me tell you a few things about loose leash walking on which you can rely…
You think you are out on a walk. Your dog thinks you are out exploring.
Walking by your side in a straight line is not as enjoyable as some other adventures for your canine who would wander all over the place if he were exploring without you.
If you have already built up the idea that being close to you is a good place for your dog to be, well done.
Moving in the direction the dog wants to go whilst he is pulling will reinforce pulling. Yes, even if it is a few steps.
Factoring in places where she is allowed to pause and sniff is kind. To him, that is the whole idea of being out. If your dog goes jogging with you this part will matter a whole lot less to her.
Identify why your dog is pulling. He may just need to eliminate and this can happen once the body gets moving. Allow his relief and then carry on. Letting a dog repeatedly mark along the way is not advisable.
Even if your dog never poops on a walk, carry poop bags.
Find a way to walk that suits you. Some folks want their dog heeling right by their side and others and happy to give them a couple of feet on the leash. I don’t think it matters if your dog travels a little behind, side or ahead however if they are in front you’ll need to let them know when you are changing direction. I prefer to look at the energy of the dog to determine whether I mind them travelling out front. If the tail and ears are relaxed I am just fine with this.
The average dog walk with the average human rarely meets a dog’s daily exercise requirements but it is important bonding time and great for body and mind.
You can have a differing style from walking your dog to your partner but being consistent will help your dog know what you want from her.
Leah & Angela OMeara
Hound Dog Day Care (Specialists in Dog Minding & Dog Boarding, Pet Sitting Brisbane & Doggy Day Care Brisbane)