For reasons entirely unknown, pet owners believe dogs intuitively know how to walk politely on a leash. If you’re also one of them, you must understand that that’s not true.
It’s a skill that dogs need to learn.
Actually, it’s a skill you need to teach your four-legged companion. Otherwise, whenever you go out for dog walking in Dallas, your furry friend will pull the leash while running around in circles, wrapping you like a Christmas present.
Fortunately, we know exactly how to train leash dogs, for which we’ve shared a few tips in this blog. So, without further ado, let’s dig (no pun intended) right in:
Tips to Leash Train Your Canine for Dog Walking in Dallas
1. Familiarize Your Dog with the Leash
The first step is to introduce the leash to your hairy friend. They might object to wearing it, but you should proceed with patience. And make sure the leash is comfortable; a tight or heavy harness could possibly injure them.
It’s important to hold this introduction session indoors. Otherwise, your pet dog will run after distractions, like other animals, sticks, or balls.
After your furry friend shows initiation and becomes slightly used to wearing the leash, reward them with a treat. (We say slightly because dogs don’t get used to wearing leashes in one go).
2. Walk a Short Distance
Following a few training sessions, your four-legged companion would’ve become familiar with wearing a leash. However, it doesn’t mean you can go jogging with them.
Walking a short distance first is better, preferably somewhere in your house, like your lawn or backyard. Take small steps, and see whether your furry friend follows or not.
You can use cue words to get your pet’s attention during this stage, such as “Let’s go” or “Come on.” This way, if your canine starts pulling the leash, you won’t have to run after them. Instead, your voice commands would suffice to get them back on track.
3. Let Your Dog Walk Ahead
While walking your dog, stop and let them move ahead (mind you, this should be done when they’re wearing a leash). After there’s a considerable distance between you two, use the cue words and see what your four-legged friend does.
If your furry companion doesn’t immediately come to you, it means they still need practice. On the other hand, if your pet dog runs straight to you, they’re ready for a walk with a leash.
4. Avoid Pulling the Leash
This is one of the biggest mistakes dog owners make. While on a walk, when their furry friend chases distractions, they immediately pull the leash, hoping it will stop them from doing so.
However, if you pull the leash, you could injure your doggy. Here’s what you should do to deal with the situation responsibly:
- Loosen the leash and let the dog go where they want. At the same time, follow them closely.
- Start walking in the other direction, diverting your hairy friend’s mind from distractions.
- Offer your four-legged friend a treat. It’s bound to get their attention.
5. Increase the Walking Distance
If you have been walking your dog around your house during the first few sessions, gradually increase the distance. For instance, take them to explore the neighborhood or a park nearby.
It’s crucial to remember that if you’ve got a puppy, you mustn’t walk long distances with them. Considering their size and limited energy, the journey might exhaust them.
And it’s not just applicable to the dog’s physical health, but their temperament, too. If your furry friend is in no mood for a walk, leave them be.
Mistakes to Avoid While Leash Training Your Dog
Knowing what to do while leash training your dog isn’t enough; learning what not to do is equally important, like the following actions:
· Lose Your Patience
Training your dog to walk on a leash can get extremely frustrating. You have to understand this before taking on a task as patience-wearing as this. Yelling on or forcing your four-legged friend won’t produce any results. In fact, it’ll make them more agitated and stressed. Because of this, you must be patient and consistent.
· Expect Results Soon
It can take days, weeks, or even months before you can head out with your dog on a leash. If you don’t have that kind of free time, you won’t be able to finish the job. In addition to slow progress, prepare for obstacles along the way, like your pup not being in the mood for training.
· Skip Professional Help
If you’ve tried your best to leash train your dog, and it doesn’t produce the desired results, it may be time to seek professional help. And there’s nothing wrong with that. After all, you want the best for your furry friend, and calling experienced individuals who train dogs for a living is precisely that.
Make Dog Walking in Dallas a Hassle-Free Experience
Walking your dog shouldn’t be a burden for you or your furry companion. Although the idea of putting a leash on them might sound unnecessary, think of it as a way of keeping your four-legged friend safe.
On the other hand, if walking your dog feels like too much trouble, give DTX Pets a call. Leash or no leash, we’re experts in making canines follow our commands with great compassion, kindness, and affection.