Loose-Leash Walking

Imagine walking down the street with your dog on a lovely evening in the late summer. Your dog is walking right beside you with her head up, ears relaxed, tail wagging and every time you move, she moves. Is this reality for you? If not, then read on; you'll find some interesting pointers to help you make this dog-walking dream a reality.

First thing that I always recommend is using the "umbillical" method with your leash. You can use a regular leash (non-retractable) or try out our highly recommended Beyond Control Leash by CE (Canine Equipment) on the RC Pets Website. Attach your leash to your belt, or around your waist, making sure that it's secure in case your pup decides to make a run for it.

Secondly, you want to make sure that your pup is wearing the right collar.

Small Dogs
If your pup weighs less than 10 lbs., I would not recommend a collar, rather, a harness. Reason being, very small dogs are obviously not as hearty as the bigger ones and a tug on the leash that wouldn't hurt a Beagle or a Great Dane, could collapse their trachaea.

Slender Necks
For slender necked dogs, like Greyhounds and Whippets, you'll need a Hound Collar, or a Martingale which is much wider than a regular flat collar or tightens when they pull, in order to stay on their neck and prevent their head from slipping out. They can easily slip out of regular collars, so these tend to be more comfortable and safe.

Dogs with Restricted Nasal Passages
For pups with short noses like Pugs, French Bulldogs, English Bulldogs, Boston Terriers, I always recommend a harness because you don't want to cause them any more discomfort than they are already experiencing.

All other dogs
For all other dogs, I always recommend a flat collar, an Easy-Walk Harness, a Halti / Gentle Leader.

Lastly, take a walk! When your dog pulls, slam on the brakes. Stand still and don't move until your pup relaxes and the leash is loose again. Once it is, start walking again. This may take some time and practice, but eventually she'll understand that when she pulls, she doesn't go anywhere. This is the first step.

This will take time and practice, but it will make walking so much more pleasurable and relaxing!

When in doubt, contact us directly and book a time to meet with us.