Lead training difficulty

I "rescued" an 8mth old male staffy/kelpie and have had him for 2 days. He fits into our loving family wonderfully but follows me (the Mum) Everywhere. I don't mind but he always trips me up, walking just in front of my feet or standing/sits just in front of my feet. Also on a lead he weaves in front of me and I although I keep jerking him (gently) to the left side of me he again weaves in front of me.

Any ideas how I can get him to walk to my left and stay to my left? Are "choke chains" still used in training (quick little tugs, not chokes).

Thanks

I don't know about anyone else on the forum, but I'm not keen on choke chains. Athough Staffs are hardy and strong, they need a soft and positive approach. This might not work for everyone, but Maska was a demon with a collar and lead, until we switched him over to a harness - the harness almost changes his whole posture of walking, because it seems like he became proud. I also found that I have more control with the harness, because you can pull back on it, keeping the dog at your side, until he gets what you want him to do, without choking the poor thing.

Please also bear in mind, you've only had him for two days, and although he is 8 months old, you can't be certain what sort of training he's had. Go back to basics, and start training as if it's the first training session. Also, the dog is still getting used to you and the unfamiliar surrounding, which can be stressful for them. Give him time to settle and make sure to practice patience.

Good luck

Hi and welcome to the forum from Rocky and me.

I wouldn't use a choke chain either, just NO.

As said above you may want to try a harness for walkies. There are many different types to choose from have a look in Pets at Home too, see if you can try some on in there. Also look at the Amazon website there are hundreds on there.

You may also want to try a Canny Collar which is effective in stopping dogs pulling on the lead if you dont want the harness. These are also available at Amazon but again you may want to try one on in a shop first.

Well done for rescuing.

I would strongly advise against a choke chain for any type of training. If you want him to stay on your left you could try keeping his focus on a treat held in your fist or a squeaky toy to keep his attention. You could also use a broomstick or other tool held in front of him so that he can't pass or move to the other side.

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Hiya and welcome from me and Moo, can't really add anything but echo the advise already given. Thank you for rescuing and please give him time to settle in

Hi and welcome!

I'd skip the lead jerking and don't even consider a choke chain. Have a read of this - http://clicktreat.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/is-it-harmful-to-attach-aleash-to-your.html?m=0

And consider a front clipping harness like this - http://www.xtradog.com/shop/harnesses/fleece-dog-harnesses/new-style-xtra-dog-walking-harness-m-size.html

Luring him into place like jstaff mentioned is a good way to go as is stopping as soon as he moves across your path then waiting for him/luring him back into position before setting off again. He'll soon realise it's much more rewarding to walk nicely by your side if you're consistent.

Does he sway infron of you sniffing? If so then it's a good idea to put the sniffing on cue and then you can use it as a reward for walking nicely.

I recommend you buy a book called When Pigs Fly by Jane Killion as it's a great introduction to shaping behaviour

Ralph is at puppy training at the mo, and the technique we are being shown, is to use a treat to get the dog on your right heel, then to hold the treat there, down by the side whilst you walk. Start off by giving the treat quiet regularly, then when the dog is getting used to walking by the side, increase the amount you give.

It’s working with Ralph

Definitely try a front fastening harness.

Thank you very much for your appreciated advice.
My first day away at work, and I have come home to a relaxed, happy Milo who has already settled like he has lived here forever. He is a kind, gentle soul with a willingness to please like I have only ever seen in another staffy I once "rescued".

I would love to share this story - Honky was an entire (white) female and when I was having hormone therapy some years ago to be able to have children, she started giving milk. I couldn't believe it and was advised by the vet this was typical of the breed regarding Pack status, her getting ready to help with the "litter". WOW!!! Unfortunately she eventually gave in to old age.

Back to subject, I will definately try a harness and the TTouch approach looks very humane and effective, along with treats for coaxing.

One question, when training my dog at the time (must say 20 years ago) "heal"was always on the left, has it changed to the right or is it personal preference?

Thanks again for the advice.