Going for a walk with your dog should be as simple as putting on the leash, heading out the door and easy breezy taking a joyful walk in harmony, together. Right? Or… are you being pulled down the sidewalk with your shoulder getting dislocated, being pulled from tree to tree, yelling at Fido to stop barking at the cute dog across the street, AND by the way, #$%@^$!!! you are NOT pulling a sled! Frustration in the extreme! We won’t want that!
Is there a way to turn this picture around? Definitely! It begins with you, the dog owner, being prepared. What is there to prepare? I’m so glad you asked! Start with a “no-pull harness” that has the connector loop on the front of the chest AND on the back. Try RabbitGoo or TrueLove. These give you more control, without any danger of injuring your dog.
Mentally plan your route and strategy. Are you passing barking dogs or packs of poodles roaming the streets? What about roaming moms and kids on scooters? Scary 8′ clowns honking horns? What’s your strategy?
Pack a pocket full of yummies! Take plenty of pre-broken, tasty tiny treats like Duck Jerky or string cheese. Use treats to distract AND reward puppy away from challenges. (Hint: If you get hungry, you can always snack on the string cheese. I wouldn’t recommend the jerky.)
Don’t forget the squeaky toy! Play and fun along the way is the name of the game. Plus it’s a great distraction, to get their attention back on you when their nose gets sidetracked by a bush.
Now that you’ve started your walk, be sure to get your dogs attention by talking to him, feeding treats and/or enticing him with the squeaky toy. Do this before, during, and after your walk.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR DOG PULLS?
1. Stop. Please, right here and right now, take this Pledge, “I will NEVER walk down the street with a dog pulling on the leash ever ever again!” I didn’t hear you. Please repeat that a little louder. Okay. Good. Thank you. I believe you now!
2. Change Directions. and get your puppy’s attention back on you again. Say her name and when she comes to your side: say, “Hi Puppy, Good Girl!” Then deliver a treat.
3. Walk Backwards. (I’m assuming you can, without tripping. If not, then don’t try this trick at home, as they say.) Do this until she stops pulling. Now: say “gooooood girl” and start walking again.
All set? Then let’s go, walking!
Please stay tuned for part 2…
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