Leash Control

It never ceases to surprise me how many people have problems with leash control.  Their dogs are constantly pulling them on their leash and the collar ends up choking the dog.  Then, the main complaint is that the walks are not enjoyable.  If the walk seems un-enjoyable to the person holding the leash, imagine how it must feel to the creature at the other end of the lead.  

Gaining proper leash control is something that will enhance the relationship between human and canine.  Also, having a good handle on the leash will make your dog feel more comfortable, less aggressive and more responsive to you.  Leash control is one of the basics that a dog must be taught before progressing to any further levels.  A dog that pulls on a leash will be difficult to train to do most other things.  That being said, it is important to use the proper leash.

Many people like to use the retractable - flexi leads that are very popular.  There is a place for them, and I will discuss that later.  The ideal leash for training and control is a 6' leather lead, sometimes the nylon ones can be good as well.  I'll leave that up to you.  The key is that it is 6 feet long and that you know how to use it.  If you have 6 feet of lead, that means you can control your dog at any level up to 6 feet away.  The dog should not walk at the end of this 6 foot lead, but should be allowed some free reign therein.  If the dog is pulling at the end of the lead, he should be corrected and made to walk next to you.  The same holds true if he is lagging too far behind.  Ideally the dog walks next to you with slack in the lead.  That means that he is walking and paying attention to you instead of pulling on the lead and dragging you along.  Bear in mind that a dog who is constantly pulling on the lead will often times be more aggressive than a dog who walks on a loose leash.  

If you want you dog to enjoy walks, and that is what they are--walks  - not drags, then you will need to be sure that your dog walks next to you.  If he needs to sniff somewhere or do his duty, he can do it at the end of the lead.  That is why you have the flexibility of 6 feet.  The flexibility is NOT there for him to pull at the end of it.  Imagine holding your child's hand and dragging him everywhere, or vis a vis.  

Dogs are not miserable on a leash, and people who don't use leashes on their dogs are clueless as to how important a leash is.  A leash will give your dog structure and also protection.  Dogs now live in a human world.  There are many many things that could hurt them or potentially kill them.  Giving your dog the "freedom" to be off leash is giving him the possibility to be killed by a car, getting lost, getting attacked and more.  Keep your dog next to you and allow him to run around in your back yard.  If you feel he needs more exercise, put on some running shoes and get some exercise with him.

OFF leash is not a good idea in areas where there is a risk of an accident.  Just because your dog is "good off leash" is not  a reason to put it to the test.  I see people with their dogs off leash on busy streets all the time.  I think these people are absolutely crazy.  The slightest distraction can cause even the best trained dog to "slip."  And one slip is all it takes to lose your best friend.