Pulling on the Lead
A dog reflexively opposes restraint, so when a lead tightens and a collar presses, a dog’s natural tendency is to pull harder. Contrary to belief, it is not a desire to be alpha dog or dominant. The dog is not being “oppositional” in a continuous, emotional, defiant sort of way, but instead regarding a subconscious physical reflex. Dogs are practical in nature. They will do something if it gets the desired result; pull harder, get there quicker. Dogs love to be outside exploring; it is exciting, stimulating, and arousing, which triggers an ardent desire to push ahead. All the sights, sounds, smells and activities are often overwhelming.
Owners can get very embarrassed, having tried every method in the rule book and on YouTube to encourage their dog to walk nicely to heel. Pulling “like a train” can also be extremely dangerous and even painful. Generally, the habitual puller simply has no impulse control, and the owners get frustrated, agitated, lose control, employ the wrong technique with the wrong equipment, and consequently create the opposition reflex, which gets embedded and ingrained as appropriate behaviour and which then takes expert advice to rectify.
Training packages with Craig, The Dog Man, provide dedicated time for you and your dog to embark on learning together. Each programme is bespoke: created especially to meet your needs and the key stages of your dog’s development.
This is a bespoke programme delivered in one four-hour session to include assessment and training. The session is usually undertaken at your home to assess how your dog acts within his usual environment, with training undertaken at various locations to apply the practice in different situations.
This is a 4-hour programme, split into two 2 hours sessions and provides a framework for training your pup in basic obedience. Specific focus is given towards loose leash walking – prevention is better than cure.
If you would like to know more then feel free to contact us anytime Craig The Dog Man®
