Taking your dog for a walk around the block is one of the many joys of being a pet owner. It is a great opportunity for you to bond and spend time with your furry friend and is also a good way for you both to stay in shape. Unfortunately for many pet owners, taking their dog for a stroll around the block can prove to be a nightmare. Does your dog constantly pull and drag you? If your dog is walking you, instead of the other way around, then training your pup to walk on a leash properly and heel would prove to be very beneficial to both of you.
The easiest way to introduce a leash to your dog and promote good walking behavior is to start when he is a puppy. Get a lightweight leash and attach it to the puppy’s collar. Drop the leash on the floor and let your pup drag it around while talking to and petting him, to make him feel comfortable. Leave the leash on for a few minutes at a time for several times a day to help him get familiar with wearing the leash.
If your dog is used to wearing a leash, you can move forward with your training. The most important thing your must remember when walking your dog is to never let them walk in front of you. They must always walk beside you or behind you. If your dog walks in front of you, the message he is receiving is that he is the pack leader because in a dog pack, the leader always goes first. By letting your dog walk in front of you, you are telling him that he is in charge, which is a responsibility he will take very seriously. Being leader will make him anxious, and in turn, pull on the lead.
If you have a dog that pulls, training them to heel will curb their tendency to pull. “Heeling” means that your dog walks beside your knee, matching your pace and immediately sitting when you stop. By training your dog to heel, you will assume the pack leader position and your dog can relax and enjoy his walk.
To train your dog to heel, begin with the dog on your left side, the “heel position”. Say “heel” and begin to walk. If your dog pulls ahead, spin around suddenly and begin walking in the opposite direction. The dog will naturally follow you, and end up back at your side. Again, say “heel”, and walk forward. When he is back in his place, at your side, praise him and give him treats. Repeat this every time he tries to pull ahead. This may be frustrating for a while, and will make it difficult to get anywhere, but in the long run it will be very rewarding to both you and your pup!
