This is a common complaint and often asked question by people who want to walk their dogs more often but who are frustrated by the constant pulling that makes such a walk anywhere from uncomfortable to downright miserable.
For my friends here in Woodland Park, Colorado I am available to modify the dogs behavior in several short sessions. I can also train the dog owner in techniques to correct this unwanted behavior. For my online friends I can offer several suggestions and critiques of common owner errors.
Ironically, most dog owners actually "teach" their dogs to pull unknowningly. Teaching a dog to heel is not an easy one day job. Teaching a dog to simply walk comfortably on a loose leash is a bit easier but is still anywhere from tedious to daunting depending on the breed, age, owner, health and other variables.
But, for the sake of a starting point let me suggest that walking with a dog that pulls is only teaching the dog to pull. In most cases, I have pet owners stop their walks and find an off leash place for excercise followed by short sessions that include teaching the dog to "watch me" or focus on you the walker. This can be done with a treat often. When it comes to your side and faces the same direction as you, this is a cause for a huge reward and celebration. Taking a few steps slowly with the dog at your side is a real success. Do this with and without the leash many times.
Next, begin using obstacles (cars, couches etc) to walk around with the dog. Use the obstacle to keep the dog focused on changing directions. Don't "run over" your dog when turing into him but look for an opportunity to be in front as you turn in front of the dog. When turning away from the dog (for example say the dog is walking on left and you turn right) be sure to have the dogs attention and have him follow your finger (perhaps with a treat in your hand). Make frequent stops and reward the dog for being close to you.
When walking forward, give a quick leash correction if the dog does not slow down when you say "slow" or "hey" or "easy". Say the word and give the dog a moment to slow and if he continues, give a quick leash jerk. Do NOT yank, pull or drag. Simply make a gentle snap of the leash. Change directions when the dog is getting ready to pull but DO NOT yank or drag your dog. Simply say "watch me" or "this way" and head a new direction. Make sessions short 3-5 minutes unless the dog is keeping focused. Don;t exhause yourself or the dog. This will result in little being accomplished. Reward good behavior immediately so the dog knows for sure what it did. A good behavior needs to be rewarded within a fraction of a second.
Teaching someone online to teach controlled walking is not easy, as a trainer is keen on body language and subtle movements of the dog that give clues as to progress being made. If you become frustrated, please call a professional. Thanks for giving your dog a good home with lots of exercise, quality food and much attention and love.
