A big complaint of many dog owners is having a dog who pulls on the leash, making the walk into an ordeal - the dog in control dragging the human.

In my early obedience training classes I learned a pretty effective technique called "controlled walking," which basically teaches the dog not to pull by having the handler make a u-turn every time the dog isn't paying attention. This results in dogs getting a pretty good jerk on his neck, but most of them quickly learn to avoid this by staying more or less in position and keeping the leash slack.

I have since learned a far more
humane and effective method of controling leash pullers:

• Using any collar (although I generally use a correctly placed chain training collar), pull the lead - any lead but a thin leather lead works best - down the dog's chest and under one "arm."

• Then pull the lead back up through and under the back of the collar - making a loop under the dog's arm. This arrangement takes all of the pressure off of the dog's throat and puts it on his chest and arm.

Put the leash under the dog's arm closest to the handler
opposite to the way it shows in this picture.

It is completely humane, but far more effective than a pinch or choke collar. Of course you could not use this technique in the obedience ring, but most people are just interested in a quiet and relaxing walk with their pets.

TIP: Never leave collars on while dogs are crated, especially chain collars.

If you have a hard time getting the collar over an uncooperative head, use food treats. Treat in one hand, collar in the other, slip the collar on while doggie is reaching for the treat (it helps to have several pieces). Most dogs will learn to put their heads through the collar with no arguments in just a day or so, some may take a bit longer.

 

Note: You can also purchase no-pull harnesses, but this leash system takes only one to two seconds to rig up, is always available and costs you no more than you already have invested in your regular collar and leash. Happy walking.

 

 

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