Basic Dog Obedience: Walking on a Leash
The most basic of all dog obedience requires your dog to walk on a leash. Actually, you can’t get your dog to do anything if your dog can’t release energy by walking it off first.
How to Teach a Dog to Walk on a Leash
The first thing you need to do is get a good slip leash. This way you can give your dog a firm yet gentle correction. Put the slip leash on your dog and begin walking. If your dog tries to stop and smell, continue walking. Give a gentle tug on the leash but do not stop
Next, try to keep a quick pace and a short leash. You don’t want your dog to get ahead of you. After your dog calms down a bit, you can work on perfect placement. When you first walk out the door and it is full of excitement, it will be hard to get under control. Walk very quickly to burn off some energy and make it keep up with you. After a minute or two, work on the your dog walking at your side. It is okay if your dog is slightly behind as long as it is not in front of you.
When you notice your dog getting a bit tired, it is time to start ending the walk. It is at the end of the walk that your dog is in prime learning condition. I find it is best to end the walk just as the dog is slowing down.
Start In-Home Training
Any abnormal dog behavior such as chasing, rushing the door, or barking can be worked on upon arriving home. Since your puppy has lost all the nervous energy, it is in prime learning condition. It can be focused and ready to learn. Therefore, this is the perfect time to start your in-home training.
Remember, keep the training period short. 10-15 minutes is all your puppy can handle.
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