Help, my dog ​​pulls on the leash!

Your dog pulls you across the street and wants to sniff everything and everyone. If you let go of the leash, you probably won't see your dog again. Recognizable? For many owners, pulling on the leash is one of the biggest frustrations, while walking should be a relaxing, fun activity for both people and dogs. But how do you achieve that?

Why does a dog pull?

There are several causes and factors that play a role, but a dog usually pulls on the leash because they want to go somewhere, and fast! This is accompanied by a lot of energy and excitement. Pulling on the leash is often (unconsciously) learned behavior. With puppies, pulling is often tolerated because we want them to sniff and explore. By pulling they get to where they want to go faster; for example, another dog, a tree or a person. If this is successful, a dog learns that they can reach their goal faster by pulling. So it is self-rewarding behavior. We don't have much trouble with a pulling puppy, but when the dog grows and becomes stronger, we notice that pulling is indeed annoying.

Training and tools

It is very important to use the right tools and techniques to stop pulling. By doing this you can achieve great results quickly and effectively. There are several tools you can use. Some examples are:

• Slip chain/rope

• Harness/harness

• Halti

• Flexiline

• Collar

Which leash you use has a big influence on the pull. For example, a harness is made for pulling, just look at sled dogs and horses for a carriage. A harness fits around the strongest part of the body, allowing as much force as possible to be used. But changing leashes isn't the magic solution that will suddenly make your dog stop pulling. A belt must be used correctly, in combination with the correct training techniques, before you will see any changes in this. Just as certain aids stimulate pulling, our guidance can also ensure that a dog learns to pull. There are a number of exercises and techniques you can use to stop pulling. Here have I have 4 tips to get you started:

1. Make sure your dog is calm and calm before going outside.

2. When your dog pulls, stop walking or walk in the opposite direction. This way your dog learns that pulling is counterproductive.

3. Reward at the right times. If your dog walks next to you with a slack leash, you can reward it with a pet or treat.

4. Leave the high-pitched reward voice at home. This way you make your dog enthusiastic, and that excitement can cause your dog to pull again.

If you want help with this, you can book a walking training with me. During the free consultation I will explain to you how we will approach pulling, after which you can practice this under supervision during the walking training.

Do you have a dog that pulls a lot and do you want a solution ? Please do not hesitate to contact me , I will be happy to help you with a relaxed walk!