Stop Your Dog From Pulling You Down The Street

From the first day of life on a leash, most dogs learn that by pulling on it, they get to where they want faster. Its the behavior that so many dog owners struggle with. Its a simple solution - just stop walking. Although, somehow your dog doesn't learn its just that simple. Or maybe we aren't teaching it effectively enough. Or say, you have taught your dog that, except when they want to sniff the fire hydrant, or meet your neighbors dog, or chase a squirrel.

I have decided as an owner, that the only way to walk my dogs is by using either a gentle leader or a gentle leader easy walk harness. I still enforce the rules - the dog pulls, I stop. The dog pays attention and walks with me, I move forward and often give treats and praise for doing so.

The reason I use and recommend these two items is simple, prevention and safety. If the dog does pull, they don't continue to go forward, they are instead turned around and facing me again. It helps me stay consistent.

The Gentle Leader is a great tool. The fit is a bit tricky and most dogs fight it when they get it on - EW something is on my FACE! Ignore it. If you just keep going, stay happy and reinforce them not pawing at it, it will go away. Some have argued that the Gentle Leader can cause damage to their head / back. I think this is only true if the dog is running and you snap the leash. Do not use the tool this way. I prefer a shorter leash and never yank or pull the leash. Instead, just stop, so their head is guided, not forced back around.

The tool I recommend and use is the Gentle Leader Easy Walk Harness. Its an easy fit, the dog doesn't mind it, and it works really well. There is no issue of the dog escaping, and no damage since you are controling the body.

Amy Dunphy, CPDT Owner of The Dog Trainer Search Find dog training information, advice, tools and supplies

---

Is Dog Obedience School for You?

Are you thinking about dog obedience school? Do you know... Read More

Christmas Gifts For Cat Lovers

The act of offering Christmas gifts is always enhanced if... Read More

So are you ready for a Boxer Dog?...

An easier and more pleasant journey with your chosen Boxer... Read More

Six Dog Training Tips to Modify Negative Behavior

Almost every dog owner will have to use some sort... Read More

How To Use Leading Your Horse To Get Control And Response

I've been around many people who try to lead a... Read More

Cancer and Your Pet

Just say the word cancer and any of a host... Read More

Which Parrot is Right For Me?

Which parrot is right for me? This is a question... Read More

The Cure To Stop A Horse From Kicking

I get a lot of horse training questions about stopping... Read More

How To Get Your Horse From Pulling Back While Tied

Some people have horses they don't dare tie. Why? Because... Read More

Choose a Vet Who Cares About Your Pet!

Lots of folks are picky about their vet, and for... Read More

Dogs Are Mans Best Friend

Dogs are believed to be descendants of wild wolves. They... Read More

So, You?ve Decided To Kill Your Pet!

The other day I was doing a research online for... Read More

How To Get Your Horse To Obey You and Look To You For Instruction

In the animal kingdom there is a pecking order. Richard... Read More

What You Need To Know To Keep Your Dog Safe In Your Car

Man's Best Friend is a great companion around the home,... Read More

The Importance Of A Proper Correction

There are headstrong dogs that know too well that a... Read More

Pet Pampering Business is Booming

It's no secret that Americans love their pets. In fact,... Read More

You Should Teach Your Puppy Proper Chewing Behavior

As much as you may love your cute, new puppy,... Read More

Cats and Their Allure: What, When, Where and Why

Domesticated cats have been gaining in popularity in the United... Read More

How to Increase Your Fishkeeping Fun

Do you really get the fullest amount of enjoyment out... Read More

Herbs for Pets

Let me begin by saying that I am not an... Read More

The Truth About Declawing

There seems to be an alarming trend to have cats... Read More

Practical Advice for Adopting a Dog

If you are thinking of adding a dog to your... Read More

4 Things Frustrated Dog Owners Should Know

You've probably had a day or two when you felt... Read More

My Fathers Daughter

My dad was an avid animal lover. We grew up... Read More

Ensure a Good Relationship Between Your Cat and Your Kids

Many parents know that the best way for children to... Read More

Defend Your Dog and Stop that Hurting Paw!

Of course, we humans use shoes to protect our feet.... Read More

Train Your Buddy To ?Walk? & ?Dance? - Warning: Not All Dogs Can Do It!

Standing and walking on the hind legs are tricks that... Read More

Agility Training For Dogs

Without agility, the most muscular person in the world couldn't... Read More

Clipper Experiments: A Tail in Two Parts

Poor Dog. Subjected to my most ambitious experiments, she still... Read More

What Type Of Food Should You Really Feed Your Cat?

What should you feed your cat to make sure he... Read More

Teach a Dog To Swim

You want your dog to swim?We're going to try to... Read More

Female Dog Care

As there are certain health issues that affect only the... Read More

Dog Vaccinations: Doing Shots

Vaccinations play an important part in the preventive healthcare of... Read More