Leash walking training
When training your dog to walk on a lead, it's important to remember that this isn't natural for them. Your dog doesn't understand they're attached to you, so we need to teach them how to behave when a lead is on. Here are two exercises to help you both get started.
The reward zone
Where do you want your dog to be on walks? To achieve this, your dog needs to associate being by your side with lots of rewards. This exercise is simple, and the key is to reward more often than you think you need to.
Here's how
Have your dog on a lead next to you.
Walk around in different directions. When your dog follows you, drop treats on the ground.
Once your dog understands that being near you means tasty rewards, try walking in a straight line, dropping treats as they follow.
If your dog gets distracted, simply turn on your heel to bring them back with you, dropping treats as they catch up.
Remember, this builds a positive history of rewards, making them feel that being close to you is fun and rewarding.
Responding to lead pressure
When the lead tightens, your dog's instinct isn't to release the pressure. In fact, like us, they tend to pull harder. We need to teach them to release the pressure instead. This not only makes walks easier but is also great training for reactive dogs. When their instinct shifts from lunging away to moving towards you, you can more easily guide them away from overwhelming situations.
Here's how
Have your dog on a lead and wearing a harness or collar.
Gently pull the lead to the side, creating slight pressure.
The moment your dog releases the pressure and moves towards you, reward them with a treat in that direction.
Repeat this until your dog anticipates the pressure and stays with you, rather than pulling.
Now, toss a treat in front of your dog and gently hold them back with the lead.
When they turn back towards you or release the pressure, praise them! Walk in a small circle together before letting them go to the treat. Importantly, don't tighten the lead again as they go for the treat – follow them all the way and celebrate together!
Practise this many times, both on walks and in new environments.
Use this method even when your dog encounters distractions on walks. You can reward them with a treat for choosing to stay with you.
