Dog Leash Training the Easy and Gentle Way of Dog Leash Training

Dog leash training can be a challenge, especially if you have a dog that is dominant and determined. Dogs with these characteristics seem to disregard any form of restraint and will pull incessantly. This can be dangerous for the owner who can get pulled to the ground, especially with larger dogs, or suffer shoulder injury from the constant strain.

Dogs tend to focus only on where they are going and what they'll find when they get there. They disregard anything else. They don't care what's behind them, namely, their owners trying to hold them back.

People have tried choke chains and other devices that are supposed to deter the dog from pulling, but they can harm your dog's throat and neck and in some cases, cause permanent injury.

Dog leash training does not have to be painful. Here are two methods you can try that have worked successfully for other dog owners.

Long Leash - Short Leash

In this method, you will have two leashes: a regular length and a 20-30 foot one. You can purchase nylon cord for the longer leash as this is extremely strong and durable. Carry some small treats that you can use to reward your dog every time he performs correctly.

First, put your dog on the regular leash to keep him close to you while you make your area desirable by dropping the occasional treat on the ground or hand-feed your dog a few pieces. When your dog has learned to associate being near you with those tasty morsels, it's time to switch to the long cord.

Be sure you are in a safe area for this in case your dog gets away from you. You will not be holding the cord. Drop it on the ground as you and your dog walk. As soon as your dog begins to get ahead of you, command him to "wait" and if he keeps going, step on the leash.

Call your dog to you and reward him with a treat when he obeys. If it appears that your dog will not come to you, add some incentive by walking away from your dog while calling his name. Repeat this exercise every time your dog pulls ahead of you, always changing direction. This forces your dog to pay attention since dogs usually do not like to be separated from their pack.

It will take awhile for your dog to learn to walk beside you and not pull on the leash. Just be persistent and consistent in your methods and eventually he will break the habit of pulling ahead.

When the lesson has been learned, switch back to the regular leash which you should be able to hold loosely, since your dog no longer sees it as a way to force you to follow him. He will learn that you are the pack leader, not him.

The Unpredictable

The key is to get your dog to focus on you, not on what's ahead. The best way to do that is to be unpredictable during dog leash training.

Keep a few treats in your pocket and the leash quite loose as you begin your walk. As soon as your dog pulls ahead, turn in a different direction. When your dog catches up, reward him with one of the treats. Each time he pulls, repeat the direction change only do not just turn back the way you came. Smart dogs will soon catch on to this trick and it will become ineffective.

Repeat as often and as long as necessary until your dog passes his dog leash training.