5. Walk Nicely on Leash
A dog who doesn’t lunge or pull at the end of his lead shows your neighbors and friends that you have trained him to be a good member of the community. Additionally, a dog who walks attentively next to his owner is less likely to become fearful in new situations.
Your dog has already begun to learn the come command on leash and to understand that the leash connects the two of you. It’s time to begin to train him to walk politely and calmly by your side.
How to Teach Walk Nicely On Leash
To teach loose-leash walking:
- Attach his leash to his buckle collar and say “Let’s go” using your happy voice. Put treats in your left side pocket or a bait bag.
- Encourage his forward motion by patting your left leg. When he is close to your side, pop a treat in his mouth.
- Every few steps stop to praise him for being in the correct place.
- When he forges ahead or lags behind, stop to let him wander to the end of his leash.
- The slight leash tension will cause him to turn around. As soon as you feel the slack in the line, say your verbal praise marker: “Yes!” Praise and treat when he bounces back to you.
- When he pulls, practice the “be a tree” principle, stopping all motion. His unwanted behavior will self-correct. Wait him out if he doesn’t come back to your side.
- Loose-leash walking takes a dedicated owner who allows her dog to make mistakes and has the patience to teach him the proper behavior.
Once your dog can walk on a loose leash, begin to pair the behavior with the heel command. This means “stay close to my left leg whether we are stopped or walking.” Take a few steps with your dog in the heel position, treat, and praise. Practice, practice, and more practice are required to teach your dog this command.