Question:
How can I get my dog to STOP PULLING? I’ve tried choke chains, yanking hard on the leash, and I’ve stopped taking
him on as many walks. He’s big and determined, and a couple of times I’ve actually hurt my shoulder and back. Any
suggestions?
Answer:
By Cherie Maitland, Trainer and Behavior Specialist at Our Furry Friends Training Centers and with Canine College
Program
This is one of the most common questions I hear. It’s best to first practice in situations where your dog pulls the least,
perhaps walking around the yard or even in a large room in the house, rather than going towards a beloved place. “Lure
and reward” training is one approach to use. Use great-smelling treats (like dried liver, chicken, hot dog pieces, not just
a dry biscuit,) in your closed hand to lure your dog into position by your side. Say “yes” and give a treat. At almost every
moment your dog is walking without pulling, use this technique. A trick is to do this when he is very hungry and motivated
to earn the food rewards that you have. Praise him often so he will realize what is correct and it will help keep his
attention on you. Often we tend to forget to notice and reward the good behavior and we pay attention to the bad. Your
attention in and of itself is very reinforcing to dogs. And what we reinforce will increase.
The other thing you can do is walk backwards away from the direction your dog is pulling at the moment the leash goes
tight. The timing is important - as the leash tightens and as you start to backup, say ”too bad.” This tells your dog that he
loses out on where and what he is trying to go towards as soon as he pulls. As soon as the leash is slack again and your
dog has turned his attention back to you, praise your dog and continue to walk forward in your original direction. Your
quick timing is important, so that your dog can begin to understand which behavior gets him what he wants.
Show your dog that the only way you and he go forward is with slack on the leash. The first several times you practice,
don’t plan on getting anywhere fast, you’ll be going backwards most of the time at first. Keep sessions short and sweet
and end on a good note. You’ll see your clarity, good timing and determination payoff as it dawns on your dog how he
can get what he wants. Headcollars like the Gentle Leader and Halti are extremely helpful too.
Please contact me for further information on this or on any other training and obedience issues. You can call me at
209-296-4DOG or 530-622-PUPS. Toll-Free at 1-888-DOG-B-GOOD E-mail to: PackLeader@Polite-Pups.com
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