How to Train your Dog to Walk on a Leash
A dog leash, also known as a dog lead, serves two primary functions. The first function of a dog leash is to keep your dog safe. A dog lead keeps your dog safe by preventing your dog from running off and from interacting with other dogs or with people in situtations which might be unsafe for either. The second function of a dog leash is to serve as a training tool for your dog, to communicate what you would like your dog to do. One of the first leash training lessons with your dog is to teach your dog is to walk on a leash without pulling. If your dog is unable to do this, you will find that investing time and energy in training will really pay off. Instead of playing tug of war when the two of you go out on walks together, you will establish an easy routine that will permit both of you to fully enjoy the walk. Start like this: when you are walking your dog on a leash, if your dog starts to pull, quickly give a snap on the leash and hold the leash taut until your dog stops pulling. Stop walking, wait a moment and when you resume walking, if your dog pulls on the leash, repeat the action again and immediately halt, hold the leash taut, wait a moment, then try again.
Do not continue walking if your dog continues to pull and never allow your dog to drag you. If you do, you are reinforcing the dog's behavior and permitting the dog to establish dominance in your relationship. While the process of training your dog might be frustrating at times, patience and perseverence are key. It's important to understand that your dog's behavior is normal and that he is not misbehaving. A dog lead will at first feel restrictive and unnatural to a dog so until he is trained he will respond out of animal instinct. He is eager to walk or run! He is also testing you to establish where in the hierarchy he fits in. Your dog will be more comfortable on the leash when he is trained to accept that you lead the way.
What Size Lead do I Need for my Dog?
How do I pick a dog leash for my pooch? Choose a dog leash which is proportionate in length, width and durability to the size and weight of your dog. Your dog's safety is a primary objective when using a leash. Always pick a leash which is durable enough to restrain your dog if necessary. A nylon show lead is a good first leash for a puppy, if your puppy is not already strong in body and will. The show lead works for a puppy because it is inexpensive and lightweight and will provide a good introduction to the experience and concept of a lead without overwhelming the puppy with excess length and hardware. If you are choosing a leash for a very small dog, look for a thin, lightweight leash that is well-constructed and has light but durable hardware. When picking a leash for a medium-sized dog, try a slightly wider leash and again look for durability in the hardware, as your dog's safety will be dependent upon the strength of these components. Selecting a leash for a large dog will require a choice which is sufficiently wide in relation to your dog's size and weight to fully restrain the dog. The leash should be of quality construction with large, extremely durable hardware. The length of the leash for a large, medium or small dog should be determined by what is comfortable for you and your dog. In general a 6-foot leash is considered standard for exercising and training a dog but a 4-foot leash is preferred by many dog owners. The obvious advantage of a long leash is that it does provide more slack and therefore more freedom of movement for your dog. However, if you need to restrain your dog in a situation where he is eager for control, you need to be strong enough to quickly pull in the slack.
Should I Buy a Nyon Leash or a Leather Leash for my Dog?
The choice between a nylon leash and a leather leash is mostly a matter of personal preference. A leather leash, once it is broken in and when properly cared for, is softer and easier on your hands than a nylon leash. A nylon leash is slightly elastic, adding to its strength but a quality leather leash of substantial thickness and appropriate width should also serve you (and your pooch) very well. There is usually a significant difference in the prices of nylon and leather leashes. A nylon leash is likely to be less expensive and has the added perk of being washable. Leather leashes tend to be more expensive and are generally favored by dogs who like to chew so if you are picking a leash for a dog that likes to chew, you may want avoid a leather leash. Otherwise, shopping for a leash should be fun! With so many new trends in dog products, there are multitudes of leashes from which to choose. Whether you decide on a nylon leash or a leather leash, be sure to include durability as a major criterion for picking a leash.
Designer Dog Leashes
Designer dog leashes have proliferated in the market. Some designer dog leashes are sold with matching collars and harnesses. If you are shopping for a designer dog leash, there is one imporant rule to keep in mind. Most designer dog products are designed and constructed with the utmost safety and comfort of your pet in mind. However, occassionally, the price of a designer dog leash dervives more from the designer's name than product quality. For the sake of your pet's safety, be a savy shopper. Always do your best to choose a leash made with quality materials and craftsmanship in your preferred style and design.
More Dog Leashes
Retractable leashes which include a plastic device to extend, lock or reel in your dog's leash, can be helpful in situations where you are walk with your dog and encountering intermittent pedestrian traffic. The leash helps keep your dog close when you need it. There are also reflective leashes and handless leashes for joggers, power walkers and bike riders. Check on-line or at your local pet store for specialty leashes like these.
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