In Northeastern Ohio, we understand that most public areas require our dogs to be on-leash. Those of you who like to take your dog out for a stroll may find that walking your dog on the leash is extremely frustrating.  You might at times get so angry that you decide to not take your dog out for a walk at all.  The problem then exacerbates because your dog is now not getting the exercise that he needs.  What if you could have peace on your leash walks?  It is possible.  As an Ohio dog trainer we want to create dog training success for you.

Perform some of the tips below to create successful dog training.  Kent has many sidewalks, and learning to train your dog to walk loosely on leash is paramount in this location.

1.) Redirect your dog in a kind manner when he pulls on the leash.  Popping or yanking your dog may create your dog to walk loosely on the leash, but it could degrade successful dog training.  Kent is a high populated area and as a resident here you will definitely want to have peace on your leash walks.  When pain methods are used your dog could develop fear or aggression issues.

2.) One way to kindly redirect your dog for leash pulling is by changing directions.  When your dog pulls on the leash in one direction turn around and walk the other way.  By changing directions your dog learns that he cannot go in the direction he wants if he is pulling on the leash.   We want you create loose leash walking in your dog training.  Kent dog owners will need to be persistent and consistent to create dog training success.

3.) There are many leash walking apparatuses that you can buy to create success in your dog training.  Kent has a Petco where you can buy some of these training tools.  We love the Easy Walk Harness and the Gentle Leader.  The Easy Walk Harness is a front hook harness where the dog leash hooks on the chest of the dog rather than on the back of the dog.  The Gentle Leader puts minor pressure on the dog’s muzzle when he pulls.  You can use the changing direction method with these leash walking tools or with a flat collar.

4.) Always have plenty of treats available.  Rewarding your dog when he is walking loosely on the leash will increase the frequency that your dog will walk loosely on the leash.

5.) As a Kent dog trainer, we love clicker training.  A clicker is a way to mark behavior that you like.  When your dog walks loosely on the leash click and then follow the click with a treat.  Clicker training is an easy way to mark good behaviors quickly.

6.) Of course if you are still struggling with training loose leash walking we highly suggest you look at dog training classes.  Kent doesn’t have many options. However, Four Legged Scholars, Dog Training, Kent can support you.

We want to ensure success with you and dog so we highly recommend that you look for a reward-based dog trainer.  Kent is a great place to walk your dog and we want to ensure peace and fun on your leash walks!

We also want to hear from you in a comment below!

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Namaste!

Johanna Teresi, Four Legged Scholars LLC, Dog Training, Kent, Ohio