How to Use a Leash for Dog Training

When I ask you to think of a leash, some familiar images properly creep up: taking the dog out for a stroll, or storing the leash securely in the dog's corner of the basement. But the leash isn't simply about taking walks; it can be a valuable tool in your dog training and can help you exercise a greater degree of control over the dog's behavior without being overly aggressive. If you've never used a leash in dog training, there may be instances where you'll want to incorporate it.

First, the leash is most used during a walk, allowing you to control your dog from chasing cars, animals, or other people. But there can be some potential drawbacks to the way you use a leash: sometimes it feels like the dog is taking you for a walk. Have you ever seen a particularly rambunctious dog stretching the leash tightly and nearly dragging its owner around? These types of relationships can be unhealthy for the dog, who doesn't realize that it's not at the top of the pack.

Some people advocate shorter leashes to help control your dog: the more space you give your dog to roam free while you're trying to walk, the more it feels like it controls you. At the very least, you should try to keep the leash tight and make sure that you're the one deciding where to go. How can you do this with a leash? First, look at your body. Are you facing the dog, imploring it to go with you? Or are you boldly walking straight ahead, letting the dog know that with or without it, you're going to keep moving? Needless to say, the dog will respond more sensitively to the latter.

You can also use the leash around the house in order to keep your dog in check. If you're trying to train your dog but it keeps getting away, you can put its leash on; you don't have to hold the leash but at the very least, this essentially extends the distance of the dog and allows you a better chance at catching him or slowing him down if he attempts to run away. Of course, you don't want to train a dog that's running away, but at least a leash will allow you some essential control over a situation. You can also set your foot down on the leash in order to keep your dog at your side while you conduct some training.

Ultimately, most dog owners want the same thing: a calm, relaxed, and healthy dog. While we may disagree on the ways to bring up a healthy dog, realize that a leash is simply another tool you can use to make sure that your dog can live the life it deserves.

Photo Credits: donjd2

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