According to Karen Peak of the Dog Breed Info Center, one of the biggest complaints of many dog owners is dogs that constantly rush ahead of the owner, pulling the owner along in the process. These same dogs tend to get distracted, meandering and wandering in different directions, and sometimes even tangling the owner̵7;s feet with the leash. This creates frustration for the owner and can be unpleasant for the dog. Oftentimes, the result is the owner taking fewer walks with the dog, if any at all.
Instructions
Get your dog̵7;s attention before the walk. Dog trainer Eric Goebelbecker of dogspelledforward.com believes you should never begin a walk without making direct eye contact with the dog. This can help with communication during the walk.
Choose a route that has limited distractions. As the training begins to take effect, gradually move your walks to areas with more distractions and continue to reinforce your dog̵7;s good behavior.
Stop pulling back on the leash. This only reinforces the dog̵7;s desire to pull. If you continually pull or jerk on the leash, yet keep moving forward, you̵7;re simply teaching the dog that pulling works. He̵7;s moving forward just like he wants to.
Stop walking completely, or begin walking in a different direction as soon as the dog begins to pull. This will help teach the dog that pulling results in zero progress moving forward.
Lighten up on the leash. Dogs are reflexive; when they feel resistance, they will pull the opposite way. Resist the temptation to keep the leash tight and loosen it up a little.
Reward your dog with a treat. Find a treat the dog finds irresistible and reward him each and every time he walks in the direction you want him to without pulling on the leash.
Pick up the pace of your walk. When dogs get to go for a walk, it means leaving the same old environment they̵7;re in most of the day and a chance to explore new sights, sounds, smells and other animals. A quicker pace lessens the dog̵7;s impatience and helps reduce the tendency for him to pull.
Play with your dog before taking him for a walk. Try a game of tug-of-war, fetch or tag to exercise him prior to the walk. This helps to lower the energy level and make training easier on both of you.