How To
Stop Your Dog From Pulling
Understanding
how to stop your dog from pulling is something that every dog owner needs to
overcome in order to be able to walk there dog in an enjoyable manor. Many dog
behavioral problems also stem from the fact that the dog is dragging you along
the street. To put it simply your dog thinks it is in charge of the walk or in
dog terms it sees itself as the pack leader!
There are
so many gadgets, leads and collars out there but none of them can solve the
problem if your dog thinks it is in charge, all these devices will do is
attempt to divert your dogs energy elsewhere or cause pain in an attempt to
stop your from pulling. If you find yourself having to correct your dog
every 30 seconds then there is something fundamentally wrong. The funny thing
is this, your dog knows how to walk nicely on the lead it is far more than
simply training it, you have to at first convince it you are the pack leader.
Think of
it like this. Your dog understands that on the walk, somebody has to be the
leader, and your dog is simply taking the lead! It is more of a psychological
battle than a physical one, at least it should be. This first stage of the walk
is actually ensuring that you are the pack leader inside the house before you
look to venture out as no dog will let you simply take control over the walk,
(the most dangerous place compared to the den) if you are not in control
inside.
Here are
some key tips to try before you venture out:
After
bringing out your dogs lead wait until your dog calms down even if this takes a
while and only attach it when your dog is calm. Never rush this stage.
You need
to first learn how to stop your dog from pulling inside your house or property
before going outside – there are some fantastic videos that show all of this.
Walk
first around the house going around the tables and furniture in your house with
your dog following you.
If your
dog pulls out in front of you then simply change direction, leaving your dog
behind you.
If your
dog drags backwards then gently hold the lead firm for 10 seconds then call
your dog to follow. They have no other options and so will follow you if you
are patient.
Control
the doorways – you should always walk through the doorways first when your dog
is on the lead
Practice
walking in and out of the front doorway with you going first – keep doing this
until your dog relaxes and gives up waiting for you to make the next move
Check
your posture – make sure that you are relaxed and calm and that your shoulder
is down and arm is straight at the elbow
Of course
there is a big difference between actually watching how to stop your dog from
pulling and reading about it! Whilst I can give you all the advice in written
form there is nothing quite like actually being shown it on a video.
One such
site is run by professional dog trainer Doggy Dan who uses a gentle but very
practical approach to dog training. In the site you will learn exactly what
steps to take to establish yourself as the pack leader. The site The Online Dog
Trainer is great for owners who want to really understand and treat the cause
of their dog’s problems and not just use a band-aid solution.
