Commonly known as “leash lunging,” this occurs when a dog abruptly runs forward, dragging on its leash and frustrating the owner as well as itself. Although walks might be difficult and demanding, you can teach your dog to walk politely on a leash with patient and regular training. This book offers detailed directions on how to treat leash lunging and transform your walks into fun adventures.
Chapter 1: Leash Lunging – Causes and Interpretive Notes
Dogs often lunge in response to excitement—exploring their environment, greeting other dogs, or pursuing something. A dog may lunge when it feels constrained or helpless in getting something they want. Lunging can also be a reaction to worry or fear, as an attempt to flee a perceived threat.
Evaluating Your Dog’s Actions:
- Observe how your dog uses body language and triggers. Knowing if your dog is lunging out of fear, frustration, or enthusiasm can enable you to customize your training program.
- Note any recurring trends or circumstances and keep a notebook documenting the times your dog lunges.
Chapter 2: Getting Ready for Training – Compiling Necessary Tools
- Use a strong leash together with a well-fitting collar or harness. A front-clip harness can help dogs prone to lunging stay more controlled.
- Rewards and Treats: Your dog will be motivated by high-value rewards like tiny bits of cheese or chicken.
- Optional Tools: A clicker can be useful for noting desirable behaviors.
Designing a Positive Training Environment:
- Start your training in a low-distraction area, such as your backyard or a peaceful park.
- Short Training Sessions: Keep sessions between five and ten minutes, ensuring they are positive and brief to prevent overwhelming your dog.
Chapter 3: Teaching Loose Leash Walking – Exercises in Focus and Attention
- Reward Your Dog: Call their name and reward them for looking at you. Repeat until they regularly respond to their name.
- “Watch Me” Exercise: Hold a treat close to your eyes and say “watch me.” When your dog looks at you, reward them. Regular practice helps increase focus.
Training in Heel Position:
- Hold a treat at your side and call on your dog to walk next to you. Reward them for maintaining the “heel” position.
- Reward Good Behavior: Frequently reward your dog for walking politely at your side. Gradually increase the distance between treats.
Stop and Go Method:
- Stopping: When your dog tries to pull or lunge, stop immediately. Wait until they return to your side before continuing.
- Reward Calm Behavior: Use treats and praise to encourage your dog to walk without pulling. Consistency is key to achieving this behavior.
Chapter 4: Handling Triggers – Desensitizing and Counter-Conditioning
- Identify what triggers your dog’s lunging, such as other dogs, people, or animals.
- Start at a distance where your dog can see the trigger without reacting. Reward calm behavior and gradually reduce the distance over time.
Refocusing Attention:
- Teach your dog commands like “leave it” or “watch me” to redirect their focus from the trigger to you.
- Reward your dog for following the command and maintaining focus on you.
Controlling Emotion:
- Give your dog time before a walk to release excess energy.
- Teach your dog to stay calm and sit before greeting other dogs or humans. Reward calm behavior.
Chapter 5: Patience and Consistency
Preserving Consistency:
- Use the same commands and cues in training to prevent confusing your dog.
- Practice loose leash walking and focus exercises regularly to reinforce good behavior.
Courtesy and Tenacity:
- Training requires both time and patience. Celebrate small achievements and avoid getting discouraged by setbacks.
- Consistently use positive reinforcement techniques. Avoid punishment, as it can worsen the behavior and increase anxiety.
Chapter 6: Advanced Methods and Advice
Changing Directions:
- Introduce random direction changes during walks to keep your dog focused on you. Reward their loyalty.
- If your dog starts to lunge, do a U-turn and walk in the opposite direction. This redirects their attention back to you.
Using Training Instruments:
- A front-clip harness helps you manage your dog’s movements and reduce pulling.
- A head halter can help control strong pullers, but it should be introduced gradually and used under the guidance of a trainer.
Including Recreation and Physical Activity:
- Puzzle toys and training activities help keep your dog’s mind active.
- Ensure your dog gets sufficient physical activity to manage their energy levels.
Chapter 7: Getting Professional Advice
When to See a Trainer:
- If your dog’s lunging behavior persists despite your best efforts, consider consulting a qualified dog trainer.
- For extreme reactivity or aggression, seek advice from a certified behaviorist.
Choosing the Correct Trainer:
- Look for trainers certified by reputable organizations like the APDT or IACP.
- Ensure the trainer has experience with leash lunging issues and uses positive reinforcement techniques.
Conclusion
Training your dog to walk politely on a leash requires consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement. Understanding the causes of leash lunging, preparing for training, and applying effective methods will help make walks enjoyable for both you and your dog. Remember that each dog is unique; customize your approach to suit your dog’s specific needs and celebrate the progress you achieve together. With persistent effort, you can have a well-mannered, polite walking companion.