Pet parents train their dogs on long leashes because they feel their pet friends enjoy this. The owners also find it comfortable as their pets behave well while indulging in outdoor activities. Although most people think that the main benefit of long leashes is the flexibility it provides your pet to run around, some opine these do more than this. You can use this to train them out of bad habits and inculcate good habits in them. This training helps build trust also. He will follow your commands as you control your pet’s movements, even outside. In essence, you can use this training to walk your dog around safely, exercise, and reinforce your relationship with him.
Dog Training On A Long Leash
Leash training can be hugely beneficial to your pet. You get this in different lengths, but some find 25-30 ft long ones better. You can also pick 15 feet. No matter what size you choose, this training will stimulate your dog mentally and physically while you control his movements. However, maintain consistency between your commands and treats. Else, you can confuse your furry creature, and the purpose of training will get defeated. Then, you need to enjoy this for the best outcome, ensuring safety for both of you. Using a long leash comes with responsibility, as you must establish that the dog goes with you, stops, and waits for you if he walks faster.
If you become successful in this endeavor, you both will reap many benefits. The pup will be in your control while having enough room for independent exploration. If your pet gets excited seeing people, jumps, or tugs at the leash, you can control his behavior efficiently through this training. You can gently and quickly pull on the leash if he does something wrong. Some people use words like “quiet” or “no” to discourage unwanted behavior. You can teach your dogs many behaviors and commands when on a long leash, such as sit, stay, heel, come, etc. It can also come in handy in positive reinforcement training.
The experts inform that a long leash can be helpful for your pet’s health and activities. They can play and run hassle-free, due to which their destructive behavior will also reduce. After playing a lot, the dog will get tired, which is also crucial for their happiness. Effectively, you can expect the following benefits from this training:
- Ease of teaching behavioral commands
- Freedom for the pet to explore under your control, though
- Reinforcement of good habits
- A habit of waiting for you in the outdoor settings
- High training recall value necessary for their safety
- Strong bonding between you two
The Training Method
Do you want to learn how to train your dog to walk on a leash? Don’t worry, as this process isn’t different from other leash training practices. You must ensure your pet doesn’t get entangled in the leash or pull on it. With time and patience, you can achieve this result. However, as hinted, consistency should be in your commands and treats. The leash should be simple. Initially, you can put him on a leash just for fun before walking him around in the backyard. Once they become comfortable with this, you can slowly opt for a longer leash to make his transition to the long leash easy. In this journey, you have to applaud them for their excellent behavior. For example, if they walk peacefully with you, you can treat them.
Allow your dog to settle down in the new setting. Let your friend sniff around. Once he has attained comfort, you can take him for a slow walk outside. Your pet may need some time to become familiar with a slack leash. If he lags or tugs at the leash, wait for him to come closer and resume the slow pace. You can increase speed when your dog can walk close to you at your heel position without lagging or pulling ahead. If they walk forward or stay behind, you must stop for your dog to catch up. It will go on until your pet becomes comfortable with the pace.
What To Do To Recognize Success?
Like other training methods, this process will also involve hints and rewards. You can give your dog treats for good behavior so that it knows such actions will earn rewards. When a dog’s walking improves on a long leash, you can reduce the number of treats. It should reach a stage when you only have to treat your pet occasionally. You can reward good behavior with other things, such as verbal praise, beneficial toys, games, car rides, etc. Your dog should enjoy his rewards. It should motivate him.
Shopping Of Leashes
You get many options, including nylon, leather, retractable, tie-out stake, and more. Nylon is the most common and affordable as you can wash them after multiple uses. Since they are durable and can withstand rain or snow, you don’t have to bother about maintenance. But these can be 4-6 feet long only. You would need a training leash for a long leash, which can be 15-50 feet in size. Retractable options are also suitable for long-distance roaming around. However, you can use them in safe areas only. If you want an expensive choice, leather material is there. With age, leather becomes softer and more comfortable. So, it’s a plus.
If you enjoy camping and traveling, tie-out leashes can be your thing. You can dig the stake in the soil to ensure your pet is near you outside. But you cannot use them for long to restrain your pet. Nowadays, you also get many stylish leash options based on your pet’s personality. You can choose them also.
However, in some cases, leashes may not be suitable for your pet, especially if they have neck problems. It can hurt your pup or dog during the walk. Again, varieties are aplenty. Most people buy a standard harness that divides the pressure of the leash on your pet’s back and chest. Alternatively, you can choose a harness that would wrap around your dog’s body with a leash loop in the shoulder area. Small dogs can like this. You also get a no-pull harness with a D-ring for the front part of your dog’s body. It gives you more controlling power and prevents pulling incidents.
Things To Note
You have to get a suitable leash or harness for your dog. Your canine’s body shape and size can lead you to the perfect choice. It should fit your dog well and keep it safe. A too-tight or too-loose leash can only cause trouble for both of you. So, please measure your pet’s rib cage to understand its size. Match it with the details on the package. You can refer to the instructions on the box to know how to use the specific leash or harness you bought. Some people dispose of the packet too soon. Please avoid this.
Apart from his physical dimensions, you can also watch your dog’s habits for a cue. For example, a collar-based leash may not be suitable if your pet pulls hard on the leash while walking. You will need a harness for his neck’s safety. However, if your dog obeys you well, you can select a long leash with a collar. It will be easy to open this type of leash.
Nevertheless, every feature has some benefits and purpose. So, you must study all the options before investing in them. Priority should be your pet’s comfort and safety. Here is a quick answer to some common queries related to leash training and the choice of a leash.
What Is The Ideal Length Of The Leash For Walking?
It depends on individual preferences and requirements. Some people buy leather material 6-8 feet long; You can get a bigger one in some other material. However, if you are training your pet for a long leash, it has to be between 15-50 feet long.
What Are The Dos Of Training A Dog On A Leash?
Start the walk in your house or backyard before taking long walks in the new environment. Your reward system should be consistent to help your dog understand your expectations. Plus, it’s a process, so you have to keep patience for results.
What Are The Don’ts Of Training A Dog On A Leash?
You should avoid pulling the leash or dog when he doesn’t follow your words. Let your dog lag or walk ahead of you and wait for them. Keep your pace the same. If your dog is uncomfortable with a long leash, you may need to stop this training.
Leash training is a crucial aspect of pet parenting. It allows you to take your dog outdoors safely. Hence, giving time to this method is better. You can seek guidance from your vet, training school, and online resources. Remember, this process can help create a long-lasting relationship with your pet. So, don’t give up. If you both get successful, you and your dog will have more of a fun time together.
