The post How to Teach Your Dog to Walk on a Leash appeared first on Taluswood Apartments Blog.
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For someone struggling to leash train their dog, all it takes to generate frustration is the sight of a well-trained pooch taking a relaxed stroll outdoors with their happy owner. To make even a trip to the vet without a struggle, basic leash skills are essential. Use these tips to preserve your best friend’s safety and your sanity.
The Preliminaries
Have the right stuff on hand. You’ll need a collar and a leash appropriate for your dog’s breed and size. Also, stock treats or a special toy to use as a training reward. Consider investing in a clicker, which is very effective with an enthusiastic “yes” for every instance of correct behavior. Whether your dog is an adult or a puppy, if they have yet to undergo successful leash training, plan short and positive sessions.
Stop Pulling Behavior
One basic approach is waiting for a slack leash, then acknowledging and rewarding appropriate behavior. To help your dog with an occasional problem, understand the need to walk without pulling, mark and reward calm behavior to reinforce it. For puppies or dogs who already pull, stop, let the leash go slack, mark, reward and resume short walks.
Side-by-Side Success
Choose whether you want your pet on your right or on your left and train only to that side to avoid your dog running around and tripping both of you. Eliminate wandering and circling by making the leash short enough to keep your pet by your side. Also, effective is marking the correct behavior with verbal praise, small treats, or a clicker. Gradually increase the distance your dog walks beside you without rewards.
Persistent leash training problems require patience and repeatedly walking away, then letting your dog catch up to you. Sometimes a different type of collar or harness makes a difference. Even a few training sessions with a qualified obedience instructor can be a great investment.
Residents of our Mountlake Terrace apartments and their furry friends love taking walks around our lush, pet-friendly community. Call our office today for information on which floor plan best meets your needs.
The post How to Teach Your Dog to Walk on a Leash appeared first on Taluswood Apartments Blog.
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