We’ve already covered a few topics that have to do with leash training: we have seen how it is preferable to use harness over a collar and we explained how to teach the dog not to pull on the leash. In reality, however, we have not yet talked about another important aspect, namely how to get the dog used to a leash, and what is the right posture to maintain during our walks. We discover how to properly walk a dog on a leash and how to correct your posture to make the walk more pleasant and healthy.
Leash training: How to get the dog used to walking on a leash
Collars, leashes and harnesses are indispensable tools during our walks with the dog, especially with regard to their security; it is therefore our duty to understand how to accustom the dog to walking on a leash in the nicest possible way! Since it’s best to expose dogs to things when they are young, you’ll want to start soon after bringing your puppy home!
First of all we need a soft dog collar, which when worn must be neither too tight nor too loose, if we can stick two fingers between the collar and the neck then it fits perfectly! The first few times, your dog will probably try to remove it. When he does this, ignore him and reward him when he stops struggling. You will see that within a few days once you get used to the collar and will not even realized he has it one! Obviously, as thre dog grows, remember to adjust the collar according to the neck size or you risk strangling him!
Once the puppy is fully accustomed to the collar we can move on a leash. Initially, the dog may try to play with the leash or tug on it. Just ignore him and reward him when he lets go of it. The first aspect of leash training is teaching the dog to come to you when you tug on the leash. The first few times your dog may not come to you, because he feels restrained, and you’ll have to praise him and give him treats. This will help him understand as an adult, that every time that you pull the leash, he will have to come right at you and so do not try to break free or pull!
How to take the dog on a leash and the importance of proper posture
Once we figure out how to get the dog used to using a leash, we have to figure out how to walk the dog on a leash using correct posture ! You should know that our four-legged friend is very able to read our body language, especially if we look relaxed and natural. If you are tense, your dog will be too! The dog will also notice if we walk confidently and upright, and this will transmit confidence to the dog.
Good conduct on a leash is so closely related to your posture- you’ll never show insecurity and your body will always have to indicate the right way forward without sending contradictory or uncertain messages. You will see that if you walk with a firm and decisive step, your dog will not pull on the leash and will be more inclined to rely on you during the walk; otherwise he will try to take your place!
