Loose Leash Walking

Loose leash walking is exactly what is sounds like. Walking your dog with no tension inthe leash. Unlike a “heel”, with loose leash walking your dog’s actual position relative toyou is not as important as there being no tension in the leash. That said, pick a side andtrain your dog to walk there.For training this behavior you need the following:1)A six foot “fixed length” leash. Retractable leashes are not suited for loose leashwalking because they teach your dog that pulling gets her more leash. They canalso be unsafe since the latching mechanism can fail and you may lose control of your dog.2)A flat collar,front clasp harness, orhead halter. A choker is not necessary for loose leash walking and will not stop pulling with training “corrections,” which is notwhat this exercise is about. Theharness or head halter can help with particularly difficult pullers, but it’s best to give the training shot with a flat collar first.3)Treats and an easy way to carry them. It’s going to be difficult to manage the leash,the treats, and your dog. A treat pouch, fanny pack, or big pockets, will simplifythings.4)A hungry and tired dog. Take the “edge” off and work your dog’s appetite up witha quick game of touch or fetch.Start out with your dog on one side of you. Your leash is in the

opposite

hand. Your freehand is closest to your dog, so it will be easy to give him treats.Only start walking after you have your dog’s attention. Its usually best to have a basicmastery of thename gamebefore trying to train loose leash walking. When you have herattention say “let’s go!” in a bright and cheery voice and start walking

briskly.

If youwalk too slow it’s a safe bet your dog will start to pull ahead.While walking, a tight leash means stop. If your dog wanders ahead and starts to pull.Stop and wait for her attention to come back to you. This may take a minute or so. Bepatient! When you get it, guide her back to your side, reward her, and start again.

This work is licensed under theCreative Commons Attribution-No Derivative Works 3.0U.S. Licenseby Eric Goebelbecker, Seehttp://www.dogspelledforward.com