Loose leash walking is more than just a simple command; it’s a complex interplay between a dog, their handler, and the environment. Over the years, dog training methodologies have evolved, and so too has the approach to teaching dogs to walk politely by our side. This guide explores key strategies to foster a more harmonious and enjoyable walking experience for both you and your canine companion.
The Importance of Leash Length and Slack
One of the most impactful adjustments you can make is the length of the leash. Research suggests that longer leashes encourage dogs to sniff more, which can lead to a slower heart rate and a more relaxed emotional state. Studies have indicated a connection between nosework, increased sniffing, and behaviors interpreted as optimistic.
When we keep dogs on a short leash, especially when they are eager to explore their surroundings, we inadvertently set them up to pull. The desired scents or sights are just out of reach, and the tension on the leash can reinforce the act of pulling. Opting for a leash that is a foot or two longer than your current one can make a significant difference. For many, a leash between 8 and 15 feet offers a good balance of control and freedom. It is crucial to attach this longer leash to the back clip of a non-restrictive harness rather than a collar or the front clip of a “no-pull” harness, as retractable leashes are not suitable for this purpose.
For puppies, a longer leash is particularly beneficial. Their natural inclination to explore is essential for development, and a short leash can quickly turn this into a struggle, potentially impacting the early bond between puppy and owner. By allowing puppies ample opportunity to explore on a longer leash, rewarding them for checking in, and allowing them to mature, you can foster a more natural inclination to stay closer. Even for older dogs who seem more interested in the environment than anything else, a longer leash can reduce the battle and teach them that pulling isn’t the only way to gain access to desirable stimuli. This approach can even decrease the value of environmental reinforcers through satiation, making pulling less likely and avoiding the negative consequences associated with punishment.
It’s important to note that a longer leash does not mean complete freedom to approach everything. There will be times when close proximity is necessary. However, you can shorten a long leash and teach your dog what to do instead when they can’t reach something of interest. In situations where a dog poses a threat to others, professional guidance and increased safety precautions are essential, but even these dogs can benefit from controlled opportunities for more freedom of movement.
Mastering Leash Management Skills
Beyond leash length, maintaining a slack leash is paramount. While the “opposition reflex” is often cited as the cause of pulling on a tight leash, it may be more accurate to view a tight leash as a cue for pulling or other unwanted behaviors. For instance, if a dog pulls towards something, feels tension, and then gains a little more access to that scent, the tight leash becomes associated with achieving the goal.
Keeping the leash slack doesn’t mean jogging to keep up or letting the leash extend unsafely. Effective leash management is a skill that can be learned. Techniques like the “gather,” where the leash is shortened quickly without adding tension, and the “dip,” where leash tension cues the handler to lower their hands, can be taught. It’s also beneficial to teach your dog that these actions are cues for them to orient towards you, signaling that you’re about to do something that requires their attention.
This can be achieved by practicing the “gather” or “dip,” followed immediately by a click and a treat. Eventually, your dog will begin to orient towards you when they see or feel you perform these actions, making the move a cue.
Reinforcing Desired Behaviors, Not Just the Outcome
A common piece of advice is to reinforce moments when the leash is loose. However, it’s more effective to reinforce the specific behaviors that lead to a loose leash. Focusing solely on the end result can inadvertently reinforce odd behaviors. Instead, identify and reward the actions your dog takes that contribute to a loose leash, such as checking in with you or walking calmly by your side.
Teaching Foundational Skills for Successful Walks
To achieve a successful loose leash walk, several prerequisite skills are essential. Your ideal outcome might involve your dog walking calmly beside you, sniffing as desired (within safe limits), frequently checking in, and staying within a few feet on a slack leash. You may also want to cue a short-duration close-walking behavior when needed.
Key skills to teach include:
- Voluntary Eye Contact: Reward your dog for looking at you voluntarily in various environments. This encourages them to stay engaged with you.
- Trotting Beside You on Cue: Reinforce your dog for looking at you from your side and then moving with you. You can later add a verbal cue for this behavior.
- “Dip” and “Gather” as Cues to Look at You: As mentioned earlier, these leash-handling techniques can signal your dog to pay attention to you.
- Responding to Stops: When you slow down, especially near potential hazards, gathering the leash can cue your dog to pay attention or perform a learned behavior like sitting or waiting.
- Responding to Tight Leash Tension: Teach your dog that leash tension is a cue to turn away from an enticing stimulus and look towards you for a reward. This should be taught gradually in low-distraction environments.
Purposeful Treat Delivery
When delivering treats during walks, timing and placement are crucial. Ideally, treats should be delivered when your dog is engaged in a desired behavior, such as trotting beside you with their head forward. The placement of the treat can also set your dog up for the next desired movement, whether it’s continuing to walk or taking a sniff break. Consider the dog’s current position and where you want them to move next. For instance, if your dog is beside you and you want them to stay there, deliver the treat in front of their nose. If you want to encourage sniffing after a check-in, toss the treat slightly ahead in an area with interesting smells.
By implementing these strategies, you can cultivate a more positive and effective loose leash walking experience, strengthening the bond with your dog and making your walks more enjoyable for everyone.
