Walking Problems

by Jay Kay Wed Mar 11 2015, 20:41

Alfie is just turning 9 months, and as every week goes by he's getting worse and worse on the lead. He is pulling like mad, even when it's a quiet street with no other persons or dogs in view. He wears a normal collar and lead at the moment, and i have it wrapped around my hand so he is on a short length any suggestions that would be better? I give it a sharp pull when he's pulling, and stop. He starts off walking ok, then within a few meters he's pulling my arm off again.

by **b_phippsy** Wed Mar 11 2015, 20:59

Hi Jay, have you tried having a looser lead and as soon as alfie pulls turn around walk a few paces the other way, hold a tasty treat like hot dog sausage cut up into small pieces and when he looks up praise. It takes a while but eventually the penny drops. Harley used to be terrible for pulling and I tried a lot of different methods but nothing seemed to work until I clicker trained him and used it while on walks. Now at 7.5 month he walks to heel very well. Patients and consistency is key and maybe practice indoors first so alfie gets the jist then move outside. Good luck. Beth

by **JStaff** Wed Mar 11 2015, 22:38

Turn around when he starts to pull or have him sit. Teach the watch me command which is holding a treat in your hand and giving a command to have him look at you and follow. A no pull harness would also be a good idea.