How do i stop my Springer spaniel dog from pulling when on the lead?
Hi Stephen We have an ESS who is 16 months old and still pulls on the lead. I think training and a consistant approach are the key though. Every week we go to dog training class and he behaves perfectly. We use a half check collar as recommended by our trainer (not a full choke chain as these don’t seem to be very acceptable these days) for classes and, when we first used it at about 9 months, he responded instantly. Whenever we use it he’s great. He also associates class with having to do as he is told so heels really well. When we’re out and about in normal situations, with a normal collar, he’s less well controlled. I think though that that;s because we do sometimes let him get away will pulling, so he thinks it’s an ok thing to do. I’ve also tried to reduce the amount of time we spend out with the flexi lead on. Treats, consistency and practice…..I think that’s the key.
I had this problem with my chihuahua she was a real pest at pulling and would give herself an asthma attack she would choke herself so much.! The only way I cured her was to buy a harness to which I added the lead It is 100% better now she doesnt pull at all its like a miracle she hates having the harness on especially when I try to put it on she wriggles around like a maniac but its the best thing I ever bought I think it costs about $10 for the XS size and it had a double use in that you can also use it to restrain the dog in the car by threading the sfaety belt thru it there is one called a ‘Halti ‘same thing I just managed to find a cheaper copycat version.
This is how I taught my corgi to walk on a loose lead. Let’s say you want the dog on your left side. Hold the leash in your right hand. In your left hand have lots of soft yummy treats (hot dog, cheese). It needs to be soft so that it’s easy for her to eat. If she has to stop to chew a crunchy treat you’ll have to wait a bit for her to finish eating. Using the treat, lure the dog into position by your left side. Give the dog a bit of the treat. With the treat still in front of your dog’s nose take a step forward. Your dog should follow your hand. Give her some treats. Continue doing this and you can gradually fade the treat away. Instead of constantly giving treats, give one after 2 steps, then 4 steps. You’ll also want to incorporate heel or whatever command you’re going to use. If the dog lags behind, call her. Make sure you only reward when she’s by your side. She’ll soon learn that being there equals yummy treats. You can do the same thing having the dog walk on your right side. Ju
