Taking a walk is an essential part of every dog’s life. However, if your dog doesn’t walk properly, it can be difficult to walk them; it can also increase the chance that you or your dog could even become injured during an out of control walk. It is surprisingly easy to train your dog to walk properly on a leash if you have the right tools and utilize the proper techniques. The following is a guide that will help you train your dog to walk properly on a leash.
Keep your dog’s leash short to teach him to stay on one side
You must first train your dog to walk on one side of you during your walks. Dogs who weave left and right are more difficult to control; dogs who don’t stick to one side will also increase your chance for falling or becoming injured during a walk. To do this, make sure to keep the leash short enough that they can’t roam to the other side during your walk.
Stop moving when your dog pulls on the leash
Dogs should not pull when they are walking on a leash. To curb pulling behavior, immediately stop moving when your dog tugs on their leash. Do not tug the leash backwards, as this could injure your dog, but instead simply stop moving and wait for them to notice that you’re no longer walking.
Reward your dog when they stop pulling on the leash
Once your dog stops pulling on the leash, immediately reward them with a treat and praise. This usually occurs if you use the above method and stop moving immediately once your dogs pulls on the leash. Your dog may realize you have stopped walking and turn to see your next move; once you feel the leash go slack, reward and praise. Continue doing this throughout the walk during any moment where they are not pulling. You want the dog to associate walking calmly and with a slack leash with your praise and affection.
Do not drag or pull your dog during a walk
Remember, the goal is to train your dog to walk properly—not to drag or pull your dog around until they do what you say. Your dog can easily become injured—even seriously so!—if you pull or drag on the leash, so avoid doing this at all costs. Instead of pulling, stop moving entirely; if you can continue walking in one direction without yanking on the leash. Most dogs will quickly pick up that you are moving in another direction and follow you. This will help them learn that it’s you—and not them—that are in control during the walk.
Training your dog to walk properly on a leash is essential for their health and well-being; it is also essential to keep you safe and injury-free during your dog’s daily walks. It will take patience and time to train your dog to walk properly, but the rewards are well worth the effort.
