Hello guys, I got a 7-month-old Cane Corso who won’t let me put his leash on. I’ve tried using treats after a couple of minutes without them. When I don’t have a treat, he barks, jumps away, and plays bow while wagging his tail. I can’t tell if he’s scared or just hyped up. When I do have a treat, he’ll do tricks but won’t come close enough to take it when I say “okay.” Once the leash is on, he’s chill and loves to walk, but I usually have to corner him, and he just lays there while I put it on, which makes me feel super bad. I don’t want him to be scared of me or the leash. What’s up with this? Is he scared or excited? And how can I make it easier for both of us so walks can be more fun? Thanks!
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Yo, sis you’re doing it all wrong. Instead of trying to force a treat or leash on your dog, let him initiate the interaction. If he doesn’t approach you for a treat, put it away. Similarly, if they don’t come to you for the leash, put it down and try again later. Dog taining 101, forcing only scares them further and seemingly l you might be unintentionally making this a game or not understanding your dog’s perspective.
That sounds like a great plan! I’ll start practicing this a bit earlier before we leave so we have plenty of time and can put the leash on when he’s ready.
You can maybe scatter some treats on the ground/floor. While he’s munching, leash him up. Then, toss more treats down and let him loose while he eats. Keep doing this for 1-2 minutes a few times a day. Also, when you say “yes,” hold out a treat and wait for him to take it, don’t say anything or move until he does. Do this too for 1-2 minutes a couple of times daily. Finally, once he’s got those down pat, work on getting him to sit for a treat. Then, practice getting him to take a treat while leashed. After that, try having him sit, get leashed, and take a treat. Break it all down into simple steps. Hope this helps!
You got experience with dogs? If not, I’d seriously recommend getting some pro training ASAP. Cane Corsos are a dope breed, but they need a confident and skilled owner to show them the ropes and establish social skills early on. Without that guidance, these big boys can get tough to handle because of their size and strength.