Why train the loose strap walking?
It is not fun or safe for a dog to take you to walk, and pulling at the time while wearing a necklace can damage your dog’s throat. Since our dogs spend most of their outdoor exploring time with a belt, training them to walk without throwing is good for everyone.
Why do dogs throw?
Dogs throw because it takes them to what is ahead: great smells, other dogs, open spaces and other exciting things. The faster they move, the faster they will get there, even if they have to throw to make this. As a strategy, it works. Throwing is gratifying for the dog, so the more they do, the more difficult it will be for them to abandon it.
Choose the heel
Teaching your dog to want to be close to you is a great starting point to walk with a loose strap.
- Start in a quiet area with the least amount of distractions possible (an open area of the house or in the backyard).
- Have your dog without strap or use a long line.
- Walk through the area slowly and let your dog do the same.
- Don’t call your dog or ask you, just let them do whatever you want.
- When your dog chooses to come to you, say “Yes!” And be super exciting! Give many praise and attention, be very attractive and, in general, more interesting than the rest of the environment.
- When your dog chooses to move, ignore them completely and continue walking.
Loose belt walking
Now that your dog is staying close when you walk around the house or in the backyard, it’s time to pick up the strap!
- Start in a low distraction environment and load a hand with high value sweets.
- With your dog stopped calmly by your side, say your name and “Come on!”
- Place your hand with the treats just in front of your dog’s nose and start walking.
- Libere the sweets from his hand as often as necessary to keep his dog focused.
- If your dog moves away from you, do not pull the belt or it. If they are very distracted, turn and walk in the other direction.
- When your dog returns to you, praised and treated.
- Remember to keep the short sessions! Practice for about 30-60 seconds at the same time to start.
Once your dog begins to find out that it is more fun to stay by your side, go up a bit!
- Have your treats in a pocket or bag instead of attracting your dog with the candy in the nose.
- Gradually increase the number of steps between rewards.
- If your dog begins to throw yourself, stop and wait until there is a slack in the belt again or change direction. Then take a step with him and quickly rebuke him for walking near you.
- Keep it by guessing. Sometimes, reward after 1 step, sometimes after 5, then again after 2, then after 7.
Try to practice loose strap after your dog has had a vigorous exercise. They will be much easier to work once the edge of their energy level has been removed.
Remember, practice is the most important step! Practice in gradually more distracting environments, keep the treats with you on each walk to practice your skills and keep it fun for you and your puppy. Happy walk!
Jen Coghlan
Behavior Coordinator
Do you have ideas for our next blog? Send us an email to (Protected email)!