"My dog pulls like a maniac when I walk him on leash!" "My dog barks at everything when were out walking." "My dog wants to pull me down the street whenever she sees something run by - even a leaf!"
These comments are just a few examples of what I hear every day from various dog owners. Whether it be attendees in my dog training classes, my private dog training clients, or those who have written in to the dog behavior advice column Poncho and I write for, everyone seems to be in the same leash-pulling-boat.
As Ive said in other posts about walking dogs on leash: "Dogs werent born knowing how to walk on leash. And us humans werent born knowing how to use one." Then why is it we think we can just leash up our dogs and head right out the door into a world that, to our pet dogs, is probably more like an amusement park than anything else, and think they would understand exactly what we want? To me, a certified professional dog trainer, this is one of those "unrealistic expectations" kinda moments. Leash walking is an art, a science, and definitely an act that requires practice! And just like any new skill, its best to start out slow and simple, and then build as you (and your dog) progress along.
I like to break down the leash walking behavior I teach my dog training students into three sections.
I have been looking for an alternative to a purse or backpack for dog walking in warm weather and this seems to perfect. (Cold weather walking means a jacket and pockets to utilize.) It has a place for my wallet and keys, (and phone and camera) as well as a water bottle and poop bag dispenser. There is also a mesh pocket to carry a full poop bag if necessary. I am all about having my hands free for leash holding and training as needed. The white piping is reflective for walking at night. Because it is a belt all the way around I can clip my favorite bait bag to the front of it as well. (coincidentally also made by Olly Dog) This awesome find was only 12.99!! How cool is that? It do admit it makes me feel a bit like Batwoman at times. (Wheres that pesky repelling hook?)
Wearing a belt isnt always the most flattering either but Ill take function over form any day. Its all about priorities.
Sunday was a beautiful day for a walk on our local boardwalk with Jenny. Ive been toying with the idea of taking a beginners Agility Class with her. As I snapped this photo I noticed something that might hinder that plan.
As Poncho and I were on our evening stroll today here in Ventura, we played our "lets say hi to our neighbor dogs as we walk by" game, which made it a lot more fun - for the both of us!