3 simple dog leash training tips
Leash training is a vital aspect in the complete schooling of a dog. Dogs are generally adventurous; they like to experience new surroundings, interact with them and play along. But, they can also end up getting into accidents on the roadside, fighting with fellow companions or biting a poor soul outdoors. Like with humans, no one likes to be stifled, but then safety takes predominance over everything else. And part of that safety is having your dog on a leash. Here are some simple tips to help get you started.
Allow your dog to become familiar with the leash
To get started in leash training, it’s best to help your dog become familiar with the leash first. This can be done by tying the leash rather loosely around them. Afterwards, allow your dog to wander around for sometime. Keep on cheering and praising him while he moves, this keeps him attached to you. Then take the leash in your hand and slowly move around. If the dog intends to go to the other side, simply pull the leash. Now the onus is on the dog to decide whether he desires to be in the company of his friend or otherwise.
Keep calm
A dog behaves like an infant, restless at first when they are being led into a leash. At times, dogs experience a rush of adrenaline and constantly jump around, moving here and there. It is important for the owner to be extremely patient, caring and friendly with his mate. Keeping yourself calm and composed and not getting buoyed by his antics is the key mantra over here. He has to be molded slowly and steadily into this new art.
Give instructions
Instruct your dog to sit or stay. After a while he will return to a more “normal” state and then you can take him out for a walk. However, if for whatever reason your dog won’t calm down, then he needs to be trained for sit-stay first. Ensure that he is engaged to you rather than the leash. While moving outdoors it is essential to keep a check over him and not allow him to run the house. But do not shout or curse him under any circumstance. This would erode his confidence toward you and make him feel lonely.
The leash which is being used should not be too long for the dog. The ideal distance away from you is only a few feet. It should be comfortable for the dog as well as for the owner to handle.
These tips will help get you started in leash training a dog, but there are more that will help you along the way. You can find many of these tips on our site. Taking the right approach with your dog makes this task appear simpler than what it actually is.