One of the most challenging issues you can face when you have a dog is pulling on the leash. It could be risky and lead to injury. Most dogs are taught to pull their leashes; however, by putting in a bit of effort and training, you’ll help Fido slow down.
Two factors trigger the pull problem. First, there is the resistance reflex. The term means that dogs instinctively resist external pressure. When your dog feels the pressure of the leash pulling him backwards, it naturally leans forward to counter it.
The other aspect is the rewards the pullers receive for pulling. If Fido pulls, he gets boosted by speeding up and gaining greater control. These factors interact with one another, making the behaviour more destructive.
It is possible to solve the problem of pulling using various methods. The most effective and straightforward method is to utilize a gentle leader, a headcollar, and an easy walk harness. The two products are made to stop your dog from pulling, but without causing the dog to suffer. If you’re not planning to harness your dog or use a positive reinforcement technique, a positive reinforcement approach could also provide a fantastic outcome. You can teach your dog to stop pulling through positive reinforcement.
Set-Up
- Find a peace so it’s easy to maintain your dog’s focus.
- You should have snacks your dog loves and break them into tiny pieces.
- Be sure to use an ordinary-length leash, which is not retractable. Leashes that retract extend when your dog pulls. This gives your dog more of a reward when they pull.
Training Steps
- Be careful not to put pressure on the dog’s leash. Hold your hand, holding the leash by your left.
- Bring your dog’s attention by giving him an indulgence.
- Take your dog for a walk. Each time you complete a step you make by walking your dog while keeping an untidy leash, you can reward him with an item from your treat.
- Keep doing this, and change direction.
- When your dog reaches the point of no return and pulls, it immediately moves in reverse.
- Give your dog a treat when the dog returns in your direction and lets go of the leash’s pressure. It would help if you stayed at a 180-degree angle from your dog’s path.
Consistency Is Key
It is crucial to remain constant in this method of training. The steps you follow can teach your dog that not pulling anymore will pay off, and walking off with an untidy leash can be rewarding. Follow these steps, gradually introducing new obstacles. There is a chance that more excellent distracting factors will need better snacks. Being consistent is critical to overcoming this challenge. At first, when you begin the program, you may take some time to take your dog to places. Make sure you allow for additional time to remain constant.
Helpful Tips
- Make sure you hold only the handle of the leash. Do take care not to “reel it in.”
- Your dog should be able to walk on an appropriate leash. Ensure you don’t tug on it if you don’t think he’s.
- Find a way to match the worth of the treat to the amount of distraction experienced during learning.
- The timing is critical, so be quick when the puller begins pulling.
- Please reward him quickly and often whenever he’s not engaging in a tug of war.
- If you don’t appear to be walking about aimlessly, you’re performing it correctly.
Speak to a skilful instructor if you need help seeing the desired outcome. Always be patient and have the time of your life when teaching your pet. You will fulfil excellent leash behaviour within minutes with determination and perseverance.