Leash Pulling Problems
There are several different ways to work with a dog that pulls on the leash. These methods are best started in a quiet area with minimal distractions, such as your back yard. On the street, there will be too many people, noises, and smells to be able to keep your dog’s attention. The basic premise behind leash pulling is that if you continue to walk in the direction that the dog is pulling, you are rewarding that behavior. The point behind leash training is that the dog needs to pay attention to you when he’s out on his walks. You need to be more exciting than the environment. Keep treats with you so you can easily get your dog’s attention and praise him.
Obedience classes can be a good first step to help leash train your dog.
Most dogs respond well to food reward. Keep some very tasty treats in your pocket and reward your dog when he is by your side. This will give him the message that he should pay attention to you. When the dog starts to pull, stop walking. Once he has stopped pulling against the leash continue the walk. Repeat as necessary. This lets him know that if he pulls he doesn’t go anywhere. If the dog stays next to you, you both get to continue the walk.
There are numerous training aides, such as special collars and no-pull harnesses, which may assist with leash pulling.
