If your dog pulls a lot on the leash, consider a harness. This will distribute the pulling weight across the dog’s chest and shoulders. I like harnesses for small dogs that have skinny necks and can get hurt on a regular leash. Harnesses are also good for large dogs prone to chase after other dogs or animals. A big animal can get injured if all its weight and energy bolts ahead and the restraint is concentrated on its neck.
A few tips for training your dog to be a good walking companion:
• On your first walk, especially with a puppy, praise it as it gets used to walking forward, instead of stopping or wandering. You can let it lead you at first until it gets the idea. Then you must take over.
• Keep in mind that you are walking the dog, not vice-versa. Don’t let it get the idea it’s the alpha dog.
• You want the dog to “heel” — to walk beside you on your left. (This keeps your right hand free.) If the dog gets ahead of you, stop and wait for the dog to stop, then resume the walk, side by side. When needed, tug the dog toward you so it bumps your feet.
• If the dog persists in pulling, stop and have it sit. Then continue.
• Walk at an even speed — not too slow or fast.
• Choose a fun route, such as to and through a park, or around a lake, or on a trail away from traffic.
• Keep the dog’s attention focused on you and the direction you’re going. It can easily become distracted by smells and by birds, squirrels, rabbits or (especially) other dogs or people. Bring the dog’s attention back to you by a whistle or command. If necessary, give a little tug on the leash. You also can tap the dog with your foot or claw its neck with your hand. You must do this immediately — even anticipating the dog’s attention shift.
• Keep moving forward if you pass another dog, and ignore the barking.
• You decide when to take a break from the walking. You don’t need to stop to allow your dog to mark an area, or to sniff around freely. You decide if and when it can mark, and when it can sniff.
• Praise your dog at the end of the walk and perhaps reward it with a treat.
