Training Dogs to the Lead

A dog that pulls when you walk them on the lead can make the walk unpleasant for both of you, and will ultimately result in the dog having less outings. Walking to heel on a lead is something that a dog will need to be trained to do correctly. This training should be done at home in an environment that does not have too many distractions. Training should not take place whilst on a walk as consistency is needed, and pulling should not be allowed at any point. Your dog can be walked on a harness for exercise whilst having training sessions at home learning to walk properly on a lead. A 4 to 6 foot training lead is the correct type of lead to use for these initial training sessions.

Training should begin inside with the dog off the lead. Encourage your dog into the correct position by your side whilst giving the command to heel, and then reward the dog. Keep repeating this exercise until your dog has learnt this command. Then you can begin moving forward with your dog beside you, repeating the command. Once you have mastered this you can progress to putting the lead on the dog. If you are training a young dog that has not worn a lead before, you will need to get him used to wearing the lead. If your dog knows what a lead is already, it will probably get excited when you put the lead on so training may go slowly at this point. Reinforce the heel position whilst standing still before progressing to walking to heel with the lead on.

Lead Training Outside

Once your dog is walking to heel inside you can take the training outside. There may be additional excitement involved in going outside, so your dog may become a little distracted. Remember that dogs are individuals and will learn at different speeds. Some dogs will get distracted more easily than others. If your dog pulls on the lead, simply change direction. Do not pull back on the lead or speak to your dog apart from to give praise when the dog is in the correct position. It is best to keep lessons short and positive.

Once you have your dog walking correctly on a lead, you may wish to carry a back-up harness for a while just in case of problem behaviour. The occasional reminder training session will also benefit your dog. Tips for successful training include playing with or exercising your dog before training in order to let him burn off some energy and calm down. Walking the dog at a quick pace can also help to keep the focus on the training. Remember that you are the pack leader and have the right to walk in front and to decide the direction of the walk. If you are training a young puppy remember to be very gentle and to keep the lessons short.