|
One
of the most common complaints of dog owners is their dog’s
constant pulling on the lead. More often than not the
owners use a retractable lead without thinking just what
message it sends to their dog.
If
I can get them to view things through their dogs’
perspective they soon realise that the more it pulls;
the more freedom it gets. No wonder their dogs won’t
walk to heel; would you?
I
use a retractable lead to teach puppies to retrieve but
on walks I use a simple rope slip lead.
Being
right handed I always walk my dog on my LEFT hand side
so that I can pull him in towards me whenever necessary.
I aim to create a comfort zone by my LEFT leg
encouraging a young pup to walk alongside with titbits
as I repeat the word ‘heal’. I confirm his actions
with a ‘good boy’ and growl at him if he gets out of
position. He must give me his full attention, no
sniffing or peeing (we do that before we start).
As
he begins to understand I dispense with the titbits and
use my voice to encourage the correct behaviour. If he
pulls I snap the lead and walk in the opposite
direction. He soon learns that the most comfortable
position to walk is against my LEFT leg.
Once
you start heel work you cannot allow your dog to walk in
any other position or you’ll confuse him. The only
time he should stray from your side is when he is
playing with YOU. |
