My 7-month-old terrier mix used to walk pretty well on a loose leash before he got hormonal. Now that we’re living in the city, where there are lots of unspayed dogs, he’s completely ignoring all his training and pulling like mad. It’s gotten so bad that he’s literally dragging me around, and I’m worried I might not have done the initial training properly. Any tips for reinforcing loose leash walking or other methods I could try?
Ugh, I’ve been there with my dog too. Have you tried switching to a front-clip harness? It worked wonders for us.
Channel said:
Ugh, I’ve been there with my dog too. Have you tried switching to a front-clip harness? It worked wonders for us.
I haven’t yet. Does it really help with the pulling?
Channel said:
Ugh, I’ve been there with my dog too. Have you tried switching to a front-clip harness? It worked wonders for us.
Yeah, it kinda redirects their momentum back to you. Way easier to manage than a regular harness!
Sounds like he’s overwhelmed by all the new city stuff. Maybe start with attention cues like ‘look’ or ‘watch me.’ It helps my dog focus.
Mary said:
Sounds like he’s overwhelmed by all the new city stuff. Maybe start with attention cues like ‘look’ or ‘watch me.’ It helps my dog focus.
Oh, that’s a good idea! How do you teach that cue?
Mary said:
Sounds like he’s overwhelmed by all the new city stuff. Maybe start with attention cues like ‘look’ or ‘watch me.’ It helps my dog focus.
Hold a treat near your eyes, say the cue, and reward him when he makes eye contact. Gradually increase distractions.
Have you tried the stop-and-go method? Basically, stop walking when he pulls and only move when the leash is loose.
Missandei said:
Have you tried the stop-and-go method? Basically, stop walking when he pulls and only move when the leash is loose.
I haven’t done that yet. Does it take a long time to work?
Missandei said:
Have you tried the stop-and-go method? Basically, stop walking when he pulls and only move when the leash is loose.
It can, but consistency is key. He’ll eventually learn that pulling doesn’t get him anywhere.
If he’s reacting strongly to other dogs, maybe increase the distance at first. Work on calm behavior before getting closer.
Jennifer said:
If he’s reacting strongly to other dogs, maybe increase the distance at first. Work on calm behavior before getting closer.
Good call. He goes nuts when other dogs are nearby, so this might help.
FYI, if he’s not neutered, those hormones could be making him extra reactive. Have you considered that?
Ramirez said:
FYI, if he’s not neutered, those hormones could be making him extra reactive. Have you considered that?
He’s not neutered yet. Do you think that would make a big difference?
Ramirez said:
FYI, if he’s not neutered, those hormones could be making him extra reactive. Have you considered that?
It might! Over time, neutering can help reduce reactivity to other dogs.