Any basic supply list for a new dog will include a leash and collar or harness. I prefer a harness myself – but that is another topic for a later time. The point is that no matter what plans you have for your pet, there will be times that walking him on a leash will be necessary. Therefore, it is important that every dog owner work with his pet to train him the proper way to walk when on a leash.
Most puppies will initially want to pull away during a walk. While this may seem cute at first, if it is allowed to continue the practice will become ingrained and it is a difficult habit to break. A key component to leash training is to stop anytime the dog pulls. This helps to teach your pet proper leash manners.
In other words, if your puppy/dog puts tension on the leash, you automatically stop each and every time. All types of training should include treats, praise and other positive payoffs that help to instill in our dogs the concept that our way is the better way.
A clicker is a small device that makes a clicking sound when it is pressed. Each time that your pet demonstrates a desired behavior the click should be sounded, followed immediate with a reward of some type. The dog learns to associate the sound with a reward and good behavior is the prerequisite to the sound – which makes clicker training very effective.
You can help your dog learn that it's a good idea to stay close to you, that good things happen when you're nearby, by clicking and then giving him a treat. This helps to insure that you are more interesting to your dog than other things in the environment.
When you are working with your dog in an attempt to train him how to walk on a leash or any new trick at all actually, it is important that you have the right mindset.
This includes being patient. Expect that your dog will not immediately ‘get it’, and that will make things less frustrating if he doesn’t. You should also expect that there will be days that he does very well with his training and other days when you wonder what happened to his memory.
Relax – just like humans, dogs have good days and bad days. Some days he simply may not be in the right mood. Speaking of which, it is important that you insure he is not overly hungry or tired when you are attempting to train him.
With a kind and steady approach your dog will learn the things you want him to. He will work hard to please you and in the end the bond between the two of you will be strengthened.
Not only does training provide quality time for you and your pet, but it creates a well behaved animal that is more enjoyable to be around. That results in a better companion and a closer friendship between you and your furry little comrade.
