Why Does My Dog Keep Pulling on the Leash and How Can I Stop It?

Dear VetBabble: My Dog Won’t Stop Pulling on the Leash. What Can I Do?

In helping many pet owners through the years, I’ve frequently been asked, “What can I do to help my dog stop pulling on the leash when we go for walks?” Whether you have a lovable Lab like yours, or any other breed, this is a common problem faced by dog owners. When attempting to stave off this behaviour, it’s crucial to remember that patience and persistence can make a significant difference.

Understanding Why Dogs Pull & The Importance of High-Value Treats

This fidgety canine behaviour often stems from their instinctual curiosity and excitement about the world around them. In our article “How To Stop Your Dog Pulling On The Lead“, we delve deeper into the reasons behind the pull and how to address them effectively. One of the most tried and true methods is using high-value treats. Treats like cooked chicken, fish, turkey bacon, pepperoni, diced ham, mozzarella cheese sticks, or even peanut butter in a squeeze tube can work wonders. Start training in a low-distraction area – your backyard or even inside your home. The goal here is to capture your pooch’s attention. If your pup is clicker trained, use that. Say her name, when she looks at you, click and treat. Repeat this process diligently until your furry friend starts associating her name with the treat, implying a positive reinforcement.

The Importance of the Right Collar, Leash and Harness

The type of collar, lead, or harness you use can play a big role in your pet’s walking behaviour. Refer to our article on “Collars, Leads and Harnesses: Which is Best for My Pet?” to decide which option works best for you and your pet. Remember, never to jerk or yank at her leash, as this often results in teaching her that pulling is normal during walks.

Maintaining Good Behavior & Dealing With Lunging

When she starts doing well on walks, use the high-value treats less frequently, but enough to reward the good behaviour. This is a part of the “No Free Lunches – Simple Tips for Good Behavior” philosophy, which can be instrumental in encouraging your pet’s good behaviour. when working on curbing pulling behavior, it’s common for pet owners to experience their dog lunging at other dogs during walks. If you’re facing this problem, our article “Does Your Dog Lunge at Other Dogs When Out Walking?” can provide invaluable help. In conclusion, remember, training a dog not to pull during walks requires patience, time, and consistent training. But with the right tools in your kit (both literal and metaphorical), you can help your furry friend improve. Happy training!

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