Loose Lead Dog Training - I Didn't Know My Retractable Leash Could Do That!

By Russell Hancock

Here is a comical sight to see for dog lovers and citizens alike: It is a late Sunday afternoon, you're driving home from church, breakfast with friends, or just heading to the local Walgreen's or CVS. Next you're driving attention is momentarily distracted, by the sight of a twenty-five to thirty pound Pug joyfully pulling it's one hundred fifty pound walker. At the business ends of an apparent taunt laundry cord, the joyful Pug and humble "dog walker" are connected to a trigger device.

The walker attempts to make the appearance, that the zero slacked cord and jaunty pulling canine are the intended result, by stretching an arm to it's fullest extent from shoulder to wrist, with full 'Kung Fu' grip. As the walker presses the convenient trigger to give the dog some slack, the Pug named Puggles pulls even harder on the leash. What a sight to see.

Many retractable dog leash owners continue this game of "tug o' war" not realizing that they are actually training their dog to pull and walk on a tight leash. As the owner offers more slack, the dog will walk at a further distance. The owner offers more slack, and the dog thinks that it is supposed to walk even further. For this reason, retractable leashes can be tricky.

Dog walking is one of the most important areas of dog training and as with any dog training exercise, consistency is key. Choose a comfortable leash length, which is a standard length that your dog will walk and keep that length. If your dog has a problem with consistently pulling, a few walking sessions with dual leashes, a broach collar on one leash and the retractable on another can teach your dog proper walking etiquette. As your dog pulls, gently tug on the broach collar to signal your dog to walk closer. Soon, Puggles will get the idea and stop pulling, as he will understand that walking close is what is expected.

A retractable leash should be used as a leash that has multiple lengths, however the length that is used at any given time should be established before hand. Allowing a dog the freedom to roam as he or she sees fit could potentially result in other behavioral problems in the future and should be avoided whenever possible.

Please visit http://www.just-dogs.org to get info on dog breeds and to find ways to help dogs in need. Article by Russ Hancock.