Dog Lead pulling is the No1 behavioural issue

Dog lead pulling is one of the most common behavioural issue’s. So what is the cause, what is the effect and how do we solve it.

The Lead is an unnatural restriction for our dogs. To be held on a collar and the lead can be the cause of many adverse dog behaviours.

However, it is a necessity because of the dangers around us such as traffic, busy public areas and the law requires this control in such places.

Think about it this way dogs pull as a natural reaction against the restraint that the lead causes. This is an instinctively driven behaviour linked to the enthusiasm to arrive at a journey’s end.

There are so many theories and practical advice on how to best control dogs and maintain the pleasure of walking a dog that many people become confused and despondent when their dog continues to pull.

Exercise the most important part of your dogs Life

The walk has immense health and psychological benefits for dogs and their owners; research shows that as little as half an hour per day can dramatically impact upon the human’s cardiovascular system. The psychological benefits for dogs can be even more dramatic.

Research suggests that dogs that are just confined to their yards, chained or just get time in the garden exhibit far more disturbing dog behavioural issues than ones that are offered regular walks.

The walk for a dog is a sociable event; meeting up with other dogs tunes their social skills and is the most important part of their lives.

Unfortunately we find as dog behaviourist’s the No1 behavioural problem dog owners state, is that their pet pulls on the lead, causing obvious discomfort, annoyance and even injury.

Looking at this particular behaviour in different way we have to think calm state is the ultimate goal.

Calm state equals calm lead walking which in turn will stop most circumstances of pulling.

With all the available leads and collars on the market today which is the best.

That’s the million pound question, as all work just with different time scales and results.

All dogs react different to a change of lead and all behaviourist work with different tools.

For me we need to start at the foundation, meaning if a dog lead pulling is sever then we need to gain focus first. The use of a long lead aid’s me in creating the right moment’s to correct & reward the dog.

There is a human focus on achieving the end result before they commence their training. This is in mind slightly short-sighted as you can, in your enthusiasm set your dog up to fail.

Create an environment for them succeed, i.e. no distractions, right fitting leads, a reward that you know works. Most importantly know your inner self. If you start getting annoyed finish on as close to a positive as you can, then try again tomorrow

There is always a solution to every problem, however with so many different leads, collars, body harness’ and head harness on the market we can become overwhelmed.

If you have a dog that pulls you, then Contact Us today for help.

You could also come down to our Friday Dog Behaviour Drop-In Class.