Today's Trainer Tip: Get out and walk your dog, no matter the weather. It is very important for your dog to get good daily exercise. This does not change just because the weather may not be favorable. So grab your rain coat or snow suit and get out there and walk! Related Blog articles: Video: How to walk on a leash. Indoor dog games National walk your dog day The Shade Walk
Loose leash walking (LLW) means that a dog walks nicely, not pulling on the leash, and not completely all over the place. LLW is not the same thing as Heel. To teach a proper Heel, you must first teach LLW.
Consistency is very important when teaching LLW. Doing this technique is actually very easy, but does require a LOT of patience. Remember to stay calm. If you are calm and consistent, your dog will be walking nicely on a leash in about a week.
To begin, go out for a walk with your regular 4-6 foot leash and buckle collar properly fitted to your dog’s neck (so they can’t slip out). As soon as there is tension on the leash, you have two options:
When the dog pulls: 1) Stop and wait for the DOG to move in a way that releases the tension. When s/he does, continue walking.
2) Say “Let’s Go!” and walk off in the opposite direction.
It is best to try and do option #1 as much as possible. Be sure that when you stop and wait, you do not move in a way that is releasing the tension on the leash…the dog must do it.
