Leash Training – Is it really necessary?
Image: Pixabay
What exactly is leash training? Well, it’s exactly that – training your dog to be on leash while demonstrating appropriate behavior. Which means no pulling, barking, lunging etc. Like potty training, leash training is a foundational part of training that helps dogs develop appropriate behaviors that will allow them to thrive.
It is best to start leash training at a very young age, many experts say you can start at 8 weeks of age, but only walk your puppy in public if he has had all his vaccinations so he is protected from harmful viruses.
Start by putting your puppy’s harness on (a puppy learning to walk on leash may pull and a collar can put a lot of strain on the throat and neck of a bulldog, seeing as they already have a harder time to breathe than most other breeds, its best to use a harness which leaves the neck and throat strain free ) putting the harness on for periods of time will allow your puppy to get used to the harness, which will make it a little less scary for them once they actually go on leash.
Image: Pixabay
Once your puppy is comfortable in the harness, clip on the leash and try walking in and around the house, praising him and giving treats when he does well. Positive encouragement will bring you far.
Once your pup is comfortable with the trips at home, start taking them for short walks outside. Always remember the encouragement.
Why is something so simple, so important to do? A leash is like a line of communication between you and your dog, like a language between the two of you which you can use to communicate to your dog what you need him to do. Walk times, dangerous situations, safe places, appropriate behavior etc. are all thing your dog will grow to understand when on leash. a Tight leash can tell your dog that their barking or running is a big no-no, while a loose leash lets them know that they’re free to explore to their heart’s delight.
There is also the matter of safety, your dog’s safety and the safety of those around your dog. No one wants to think of the possibility of injury to your pet or to someone else because of your pet, but reality is that it is something we need to keep in mind. Having a leash trained dog in an area busy with cars could mean the difference between injury and not getting injured.
When at the dog park or at the vet, where other animals are near, having a leash trained dog means your dog is less stressed and less likely to attack another animal. It also gives you control over your dog if there is another untrained or aggressive dog in the same space, moving your dog out of the situation will take far less effort. It is much easier to control a leash trained dog than a dog who is highly stressed with no means of control at all.
Leash training may sound like a lot of hassle, especially if there are other things like potty training to do as well.
Image: Pixabay
However, it’s an invaluable tool when it comes to keeping your dog safe in the great outdoors. Not to mention the joy of easy trips with a well-trained dog and the trust between you two. Be it on vacation, to the dog park or even to the vet. A little effort goes a very long way in giving your dog a fun, comfortable experience outside of your home, and yourself a stress free one.
“A gentle tug on the leash and I would adjust myself quickly. I never questioned it. I knew that she knew where we were going and I never once looked back.” – JACK McAFGHAN: Reflections on Life with my Master.
Source: English & French Bulldog Rescue SA
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Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.
