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In this dog training article I’ll be taking a more detailed look at dog lead training specifically walking your dog on a lead (leash) without any pulling. Walking your dog on a leash is probably something you do at least once a day so it is important to teach your dog how to do it well.

Good lead walking takes practice. Pulling on the lead is a common problem, the longer you allow it to continue the more difficult it will be to stop.

You dog will assume that he is doing the right thing by pulling if you carry on walking without correcting him. Clearly this is not what you want to convey to your dog.

Pulling your dog back while he is pulling will probably mean that he pulls even harder. This will be good fun for him! So you need to train him to walk properly. Dog lead training is all about encouraging the right behaviour.

Have plenty of treats ready and before you begin walking, hold the leash in both hands. Keep your hands close to your body. Give your dog a treat and praise him each time he looks up at you or is just sitting or standing still. You want him to know that this is good. He will soon notice that paying attention to you is rewarded.

If he begins to lean or walk forward don’t pull but take a few steps backwards. Remain stationary with your hands by your side. There may be tension on the lead, but just wait. Eventually he will slacken his pull or look up to you. As soon as he does this give him verbal praise and move your arm down to your side and give him a treat.

Continue praising your dog until he moves forward toward the end of the lead. Say nothing if he pulls again but when he releases the pull you should praise him again.

When your dog stands next to you, you should start walking. The best thing is to say your dog’s name and command “let’s go” or “let’s walk”. The actual words you use are unimportant, “Rhubarb” will do so long as you consistently use it just before the dog moves forward.

If he continues to walk properly without pulling forward then carry on walking, rewarding him occasionally with verbal praise and treats.

If you see that he is about to pull then stop walking and stand still. He will wonder why you stopped and will probably look back at you. As soon as he does then you should praise him and give him a treat as you start walking again. Repeat this process every time your dog starts to pull.

In due course he will understand that you won’t follow him when his collar is tight in other words the walking stops. This will encourage him to walk with a slack lead.

You should begin dog lead training in your home or garden. Your dog will then get used to walking on the lead in a controlled environment. When you are beginning to see success you can go outside.

You should always reward your dog at every opportunity.

Go to my dog training guide at TrainMyOwnDog.com for more interesting articles on dog training.

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