Dog leash etiquette: The training path from pulling to following
Stopping moving is the most effective lesson.
The fundamental reason a dog pulls on a leash is "pull = move forward". As long as you're walking when he pulls, the behavior is reinforced. So the first step is to set the rules: if the rope is tight, stand still immediately, and wait until it turns back or the rope becomes slack before continuing.
When it comes to tools, give priority to H-shaped harnesses or front-button harnesses, and avoid using P-chains and retractable ropes. The inability of telescopic ropes to exert stable mechanical feedback is the biggest obstacle to accompanying training.
Training sequence: first walk three meters in a distraction-free environment at home, adding snack rewards; then go to the open space downstairs; and finally go to the street where there are dogs and people. Each training session lasts ten to fifteen minutes, twice a day.
A common mistake is to walk while shouting "Don't pull." Dogs don't understand negative commands. What they need is clear action results: pull = stop, release = move forward. Loose passwords will only make the signal ineffective.
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