Dog Training: How To Train Your Dog To Change Direction When Walking

An Exercise in Training and Practice

Teaching your dog to walk on a lead or leash is an exercise requiring training on the part of both you and your dog.  You must have the dog walking beside the owner without overtaking him or pulling.  Walking your dog should definitely not be an exercise in stretching or pulling, but rather a simple task.

The dog lead or leash is an ideal way in which to maintain control of the dog and communicate information to the dog.  Each and every movement, your change of direction and the contraction in your arm are all ways in which you can signal directions to the dog without it looking at you or even having to take a verbal instruction, once the animal has been properly trained.

You can begin the lead training when the dog is a puppy, getting the dog used to wearing of a collar first and then adding the leash to the combination.  Practice this at home, associating it with pleasant and playful times such as petting, games and rewards.  Try to avoid having the dog wear a collar and leash when you are away from it, as this association will consequently associate the restrains to its freedom with your departure from the home.

Once the puppy has achieved a level of comfort with wearing the collar and leash, and is able to walk about comfortably, you can move the next phase of the training in which you are able to make corrections to the dog’s actions.  If your dog pulls too strongly this will indicate a needed correction with a verbal correction,"NO."

You should not pick a retractable dog lead that would prevent a proper avenue of communication with the dog.  In the initial stages of training, a longer lead might be more appropriate and as the dog advances, the lead can be shortened.

Be patient, kind and consistent during all phases of the collar and leash training.  With time, rewards and consistency, your dog will be well behaved and safe.

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