Training a Dog Not to Pull On The Lead
As he signed the completed form the nurse took the lead from the dog's owner who said, "I just warn you - she pulls". With that the dog surged towards the horizon, almost pulling the poor nurse's arm from its socket. "I told you", said the owner, chuckling merrily. It was almost as if he was proud of the fact that he had the worst lead trained dog in the history of dog leads. Proud? He should be ashamed - there's absolutely *no* excuse for having a dog that does that. Lead training is one of the easiest, and most basic disciplines to teach a dog. Why on earth do people put up with that sort of behaviour? Presumably because they just don't realise how straigtforward it is to cure. One of the simplest ways is just to stand still every time your dog tries to pull. No need to haul it about or get into some sort of tug of war. Dog moves forward - you stop. When the dog quietens down start walking again. The moment the dog tries to pull forward you just stop still again. Over and over again. The dog will soon realise it's never going to get anywhere unless it walks quietly beside you - at which point you give it plenty of warm, loving praise and the odd treat to reinforce the message. If you're having any problems with your own dog on the lead try it - it works like a charm! Recommended reading - "Dog Training Blueprint To Success".
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