How to Get a Rottweiler to Accept a Gentle Leader

If you own a Rottweiler you may have noticed how strong these dogs can be when walked on the leash. If you are being dragged all over the neighborhood, invest in some good training and the right tools to correct this behavior. A Gentle Leader can provide you with stress-free walks by discouraging pulling, but you must introduce your dog to this training tool so that he will accept it.

Things You'll Need

  • Gentle Leader
  • Leash
  • Treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Identify the nose loop portion of your Gentle Leader. Hold some treats in your right hand and the nose loop in your left. You want your Rottweiler to insert its muzzle inside the loop in order to get the treats. Repeat this several times a day for several days so your dog builds a positive association with the nose loop.

    • 2

      Grab a handful of treats and ask your Rottweiler to insert his muzzle inside the loop. Gently snap the neck strap. Ensure the Gentle Leader is fitted correctly and resembles the letter ''V'' when looked at from the side.

    • 3

      Lure your Rottweiler toward you with treats; go forward five or six steps. Ask him to sit, and then give him the treats. You want him to focus on the treats instead of on the head halter. He may paw at the nose loop, but distract him with treats and continue leading him forward.

    • 4

      Attach the leash to the Gentle Leader once your Rottweiler ignores it. Go for a short walk in an area free of distractions. Bring treats along to reinforce the positive association to the Gentle Leader.

    • 5

      Stop walking the moment your Rottweiler tries to pull you, causing the leash to create tension on the nose loop and pull his head toward his tail. Ask him to assume the heel position and continue walking, allowing him to walk forward after a few steps. Repeat until he learns that pulling makes the walk stop.