Leash Training Made Simple
Summer is around the corner. Its the perfect time of year to take some dog walks and get rid of that cabin fever. If your dog walks amount to a jog in the park for your dog with you in tow, this article is for you!
Mixing It Up
Abruptly changing the direction you’re heading in may be enough distraction to make your dog understand that he needs to follow you. Each time your dog begins to yank on the lead or run in front of you, quickly change direction and start walking in a different direction. When he does the right thing and returns to your side, immediately reward your dog with praise and a small dog treat. Tempting as it is, don’t scold your dog for tugging on the leash. Just redirect his attention by abruptly changing direction.
You may have to repeat this many times , even if it means your “walk” is only a few steps at a time, back and forth. The idea is that you want your dog to be paying attention to you and your movements. Repeating this process and giving praise and treats when he responds positively, quite often fixes the tug of war game some dogs like to play.
If you already own a remote dog trainer that offers both positive and negative tone reinforcement, now would be a good opportunity to put it to use.
Consistency is Important
Once you’ve made up your mind that you want your dog to walk obediently beside you, don’t give in! Be consistent in your application of rules so as not to confuse your dog. Treat this as you would any other training session.
Initially its best if you stick to familiar places, like your backyard or driveway, to practice your new leash training skills. Once you’re confident your dog understands what’s expected of him, begin taking longer walks in less familiar places.
Keep Up the Good Work
As with all dog training, teaching your dog to walk properly on a leash is an ongoing process. It’s not something your dog will probably “get” in just one session. You’ll want to continue to use this technique occasionally to keep your dog on his toes and reinforce his new behavior.
Be generous with your praise – act as though your dog just did the smartest thing ever! Your dog loves receiving praise and rewards from you. The more praise you give when you “catch him” being good, the more likely he is to pay close attention to what you’re doing.
Categories: Dogs Tags: dog training, dog walking, dog walks, leash training, training your dog
Find Time for Dog Walking
Dog walking, a undemanding, yet helpful work out for both woman and dog. Nowadays, one of the cheapest exercises available. It can take place anywhere and at anytime regardless of the weather. In London dog walking is universal.
It is very key for the dogs as they have directly descended from wolves. So whether a Newfoundland or a Maltese, they still keep many of the wolf’s characteristics. One of these is their ability to travel many miles. There are clearly some exceptions with some of the exotic breeds, that have evolved enormously through man’s selective breeding. Many have the stamina and strength to travel over ten miles or more.
It is unfortunate now, many people can’t find sufficient time for dog. So whether it is dog walking on a leash or free, dog walking is needed by the dog. The result of insufficient dog walking is a irritated animal that is often destructive, either though making noise, ripping things up, running away and digging the garden up.
Increasingly people are needing to use paid dog walkers to guarantee their dog gets the exercise that he needs. Using these professional dog walkers can also give some communal mixing for a lone dog to walk with other dogs and behavioural benefits through better control. It is also a change to the dogs outlook which is also beneficial.
The benefits for the human, outside of the happiness of having a well mannered and fit dog, includes his own fitness and some social benefits.
Sixty minutes of dog walking (you as well) will use between 200 and 300 calories, depending on your weight, clearley improving your wellness! The heavier you are, the more calories you burn. Walking does not pressure your legs and ankles, unlike running, which can damage your joints and bones.
On the social front, dog walking gives a good opportunity to meet people in your area. These persons may have dogs, giving you something in common to discuss. As you are doing this in your neighbourhood you must be socially aware, clearing up your dogs mess, respect the local laws and rules. Whilst you need to manage your dog so it does not irritate others, it is also an opportunity to apply some simple dog control.
So that dog walking is not too tiring for you, you need to stop your dog pulling his leash. Likewise, if others take your dog walking, ensure they do it in a comparable way to you. Both of you go and enjoy the walk!
Categories: Pets Tags: dog behaviour, dog walking, exercise, health
