Updated by Sheryl on Nov 22, 2021
After a hard day at work, taking a walk with your dog is an excellent way to decompress and unwind from your day. Take advantage of the opportunity to get some exercise and fresh air while getting away from the four walls of your home office. It's good for both of you!
However, most of us have a pretty different experience than those who walk with their dogs on a loose leash. Let's see how loose leash walking matters.
Walking with a loose leash is not only more comfortable for your dog, but it is also safer. It's also a matter of public safety. Whether you have a large or tiny dog, teaching him to walk on a leash respectfully is essential.
It is possible that your dog will leap on another person, even out of enthusiasm, and cause significant injury to someone else, especially if that person is old or a little kid who falls down or is scratched or pricked by your dog. If you have a large dog, you are definitely aware of the hazards of being dragged forward unexpectedly when your dog pulls against the leash when you are out walking or running.
Teaching your furry friend to walk on a loose leash in public is extremely important, but it can be difficult for a novice pet owner to get started.
Any experienced pet parent or dog walker has witnessed it and perhaps even endured it: dogs pulling on the leash and dragging their person in various ways. There are a variety of variables that might contribute to pulling, but the most common is a lack of concentration and enthusiasm throughout the walk.
It is normal for your dog to want to stop every five feet while you're out on a walk to sniff, dig, or mark his territory. But if you want to avoid it—a retractable leash, which allows your dog to roam far away, or a harness, which gives you no control over your dog's head, are both not recommended.
It is critical to start on the right foot when teaching a puppy basic leash etiquette—and the sooner you start, the better.
As soon as you bring your canine companion home, keep him on a leash and let him run about the house. Once your puppy has become accustomed to walking on a leash in the home, begin taking them for short walks around the yard, gradually moving to longer walks outdoors.
The following are the five most important things to consider while trying to stop your dog from tugging on his lead:
Before any contact or training, even a basic recall works best with a calm, well-rested dog, which is always the case. Even if the dog is excited, calm yourself and wait for him to calm down.
Your dog's learning takes place on his or her own schedule. Start with short workouts in your house, rear garden or yard. If you do not have access to these, choose a remote location and off the beaten path. Dogs require a sense of security. Look for peaceful home development and industrial development, or a calm green place—an area where there are few dogs and people.
On average, in 4 to 6 weeks, your dog will learn the leash training. If you begin leash training your puppy at an early age, it should be able to acquire correct walking etiquette. However, your commitment to the process will significantly impact how quickly your dog learns this skill.
When it comes to older dogs, it may take them longer to learn, especially if they have already established undesirable behaviors such as pulling on the leash. But don't lose up - even the most obstinate canines can be trained to walk on a leash with the correct combination of rewards and affection.