How Do I Stop My Dog From Pulling on Walks? To teach your dog how to walk nicely outside you'll need patience, walking at the right time (when there are as few distractions as possible and when you and your dog are feeling connected to one another), reinforcing the type of walking you're happy with, and using harm-free dog walking tools. Let's start with the most important part.. you and your dog's safety! It's important that we prioritize you and your dog's safety to ensure that you're all feeling happy and safe about tomorrow's walk. What's number 1 on my list of to-do's when it comes to dog walking safety is considering a dog walking harness, more precisely the Freedom (No-Pull) Harness . Before I share with you a little more about it and why I recommend it, let's first tackle the most common question dog trainers get about harnesses: Don't harnesses encourage more pulling? Like with sled dogs? The short answer is no. If you're not already using a harness and you're reading this, chances are your dog is already pulling on their collar and that in its own can be harmful to your dog's neck, as well as ineffective. If you're using a harness and your dog is still pulling, this is mostly due to a number of key factors that we'll touch on in this article. The solution to dog walking doesn't lie in the tools alone, but rather in How and When we use them. The Freedom Harness is currently my go-to harness because it comes with not only a back clip but also a front one. This allows me to use a leash, and with the least amount of pressure or force, guide my dog's chest toward me in order to be able to redirect and guide him. Having two clips instead of one can be amazing for heavy pullers (especially with larger breeds) as these harnesses can be purchased in tandem with a double-clip leash for further support. We greatly recommend getting this or another harness that shares this dual clip feature which will also help prevent neck injuries from the use of any type of collar around your dog's neck. With that out of the way, let's focus on the lesson itself! The first exercise I suggest that all pet parents practice, whether they have a 10-week-old puppy or a 10-year-old dog is the umbilical cord exercise. This exercise consists of having your dog walk with you indoors for short periods of time, as you introduce minor but multiple distractions (like toys, or sounds, and food) they can practice ignoring by walking with you, as you reward that choice to walk on. To make this even easier and more convenient for you, you can tie your dog's leash to your waist so your hands are free to reward with treats/kibble and even play some games if needed, to keep your dog's brain engaged. The benefit of this exercise is that you and your dog are practicing in a setting that has the least amount of difficult distractions possible, allowing you both to consistently build a connection that will be beneficial once you're outside and faced with more distractions. You can use your dog's meal to practice this exercise as it also makes for a wonderful mentally stimulating exercise. Follow it with a couple of fetch or tug-and-pull games and you'll have a dog that's then feeling not only more connected to you but mellow as well. This idea of helping your dog feeling mellow and relaxed dog before or during your training sessions, is an important part of the dog walking lesson that'll help prevent your dog from feeling the need to pull on walks. Most pet parents, unfortunately, see their dog's walk as their main outlet for exercise, however in my opinion this is the biggest reason for the pulling. You will find that if you use the walk as a cool-down activity, following mentally and physically-stimulating activities, your dog will start to associate the walk as an activity that is done to further relax, and simply bond. As opposed to an activity where they need to continuously search for ways to expand their energy. Got your harness? Got your dog doing little walks indoors where you're rewarding them for checking in and choosing to walk nicely? Awesome! Next comes the part where we go from Level 1 to Level 2 and for every dog level 2 is different. For some dogs, the next level might be simply walking near the door before you feel as though you have completely lost the connection you had and their attention, and it that has instead shifted towards the excitement that the door might open. For other dogs (particularly young ones) you will be able to go through a few different levels quite rapidly. Such as touching the door knob, turning it, opening the door a little, a little more, and so on. All while continuing to walk indoors. The key thing with your dog's levels is not what they are, but rather How and When you decide to go through them. Without realizing it, you and your dog have gone through (or potentially skipped through) all of these levels often, because you need to take your dog out for their bathroom break pronto, and you understand their need to go for a walk. But if you came back indoors after their potty break and restarted the walk indoors, you will see that your dog will do his or her best to make sense of the change in the usual routine by checking in with you, which is when you want to reward before going to the next level. As you go through different levels, pay close attention to how you're feeling, to how your dog is feeling, and whether you think you are both in tune with one another and connected. You should then be able to safely proceed to the next level and make it further into your walk. If you don't, then the best you can do is keep your walks short and sweet, by walking your dog in and out of your home, and a little further each time, the more you feel your bond becomes stronger with each step. That's because the opposite of a dog pulling is a dog that is choosing to focus its energy and attention on you! Once you make it further and further out, you will inevitably run into situations, people, or dogs that will be all too distracting and this is normal, and okay. Dogs feel and react like any other individual can, and there's just no way of knowing exactly how they will react in environments you can't fully control. So what do you do in those, more challenging scenarios? Take a breather, channel in your patient self and help your dog "reset" by walking back closer to where you were previously, to help your dog feel calm once more, to wait for the moment when your dog checks in and reconnects with you and get that amazing tasty treat reward AND your attention, as you keep walking!

Encouraging Calm Moments & Emotional Regulation Training young, high-energy dogs can be an adventure in it of itself, especially when they’re incredibly eager to explore and play! In today’s session, Biscoff and Bear, two fun-loving pups, show us the importance of combining playtime with moments of calm and focus. After they’ve had a chance to run and release their energy, both feel much much more open to learning and responding to my cues, as well as offering desirable behaviours naturally. This approach lays the foundation for a trusting, communicative bond that you can then take through different environments and situations. Let's look at each step taken and go over how this blend of play and calm training can make your walks smoother and more enjoyable. 1. Channeling Energy Before Training Young dogs have high energy levels, and channelling that energy through play helps them focus on what’s next. For Bear and Biscoff, an open area to run is ideal. By letting them freely explore, they get what they need while becoming more coachable. 2. Rewarding Connection and Pauses As the dogs start to get comfortable, we focus on including pauses during their play. Simple cues like “Find it” or “Come” help reinforce moments of stillness and encourage our dogs to slow down a bit. The goal isn’t to ask them to sit or follow rigid commands but to offer them subtle guidance back to calmness, or at the very least give them the opportunity to. Too often to we associate play with non-stop go-go-go actions and feelings which is good, but becomes great when we're able to incorporate breaks and mental focus too, as a useful lifelong skill that dogs can benefit from. This mix of playful energy and behaving in a mellow manner helps build trust and reinforces that training can happen at any moment. 3. Leash Manners after Playtime Once they’ve burned off some energy, it’s time to focus on leash manners or any skills that require a bit more focus and attention from your dog. Keeping a short but loose leash ensures they’re close yet free from tension, ideal for focused yet enjoyable walks. Biscoff’s high energy means she’s eager to sniff and explore, while Bear is naturally a little bit more relaxed while walking. Our goal is for both dogs to enjoy their walk without pulling or disconnecting from us, maintaining the same calm and light mood they displayed after their playtime. 4. Calm and Focused Walks By the end of the session, Biscoff and Bear can walk even more calmly, enjoying a relaxed experience without feeling the need to explore frenetically. The leash is also then loose, at ease, and the training transforms from having to be quick and more monitored to a quiet and relaxing bond. This approach provides the best of both worlds: the freedom to be and the chance to connect calmly. 5. Reinforcing What We Want to See At the end of a session that includes both enrichment outlets as well as moments of calmness, the dogs are naturally more cooperative. Training isn’t just about cues; it’s about nurturing moments where we all feel engaged and in tune with one another, whether you'd like that to be in very exciting and stimulating or calm and mellow situations. Rewarding the type of moments you want to see more helps our dogs learn to give us more of what we want, time and time again.

Taking a walk with a dog that fears cars and/or other loud noises that don't make much sense to them can be challenging, but with the right approach, it can also be an incredible opportunity for growth. In this blog post, we'll focus on a step-by-step idea to help your dog overcome their anxiety using trust-building exercises and gradual exposure. Understanding the Fear Many dogs experience anxiety around loud noises and fast-moving cars, especially dogs who are naturally a bit more sensitive to noise or in general. The key to helping them overcome this or any other fear is not by rushing the process, but by observing their signals, tailoring and adjusting their experience and taking small, progressive steps. Gradual Exposure: The Slow and Steady Approach Chuy, the dog featured in this video with whom I've been working very closely for some time now, was once completely terrified of the idea of cars, particularly moving ones. He used to run away from them in any direction, but by introducing him to these environments at a slow pace and allowing him to take breaks when needed, he gradually became a little bit less fearful with each walk we took. Some of the ways I made it possible for Chuy to take breaks is by carrying him from time to time, and even bringing a wagon or doggie backpack with us (this is a big advantage with smaller dogs). If your dog is similar in how they feel about dogs, you'll want to avoid walking directly by cars at first. Instead, start by introducing them to quieter roads with minimal to no traffic, and from a large distance, slowly increasing the exposure as they start to grow more comfortable. Reading Your Dog's Body Language As you help your dog overcome their fears, paying attention to their body language is extremely I'mportant. That is because behaviour modification is in no way a linear process, and although one day your dog might impress you with their progress, the next they may feel completely different. This doesn't mean that you're taking steps back, but rather that your dog needs some extra help and recognizing it as such is key, by closely observing and understanding your dog's body language. Chuy often communicates his need for a break by walking toward houses or slowing down and pausing whenever he hears something, more often than usual. When your dog signals they need a moment, respect that by giving them the time and space to process what's happening. In some cases that could be done by picking up your dog, for others that might mean walking in a calmer, quieter direction. By doing so, you show them that you're there to support them and not push them beyond their limits. Building Trust First and foremost, your dog needs to know that they are going to feel safe with you during your walks. After all, your dog has no way to predict exactly what's going to happen or when, when you're outside. This trust you build by walking them in environments where they can repeatedly feel safe and heard allows them to move forward with more confidence and certainty. With Chuy, I ensure that he knows I'm listening to his needs, whether that means taking a break, keeping the walk short, going somewhere quiet or picking him up when things get too overwhelming. The Power of Positive Reinforcement Whenever Chuy demonstrates bravery, like approaching a noisier street or calmly letting cars pass by, I reward him with my voice. This sounds a bit silly, but when dealing with fear and potentially stressful environments, not ever doing is going to feel like taking food/treats or comfortable enough to interact a whole lot. They likely just want to focus on feeling safe, keeping things short and sweet. But you can still practice associating your voice and words with your dog's progress, little by little. This type of positive reinforcement and encouragement, through treats or verbal praise, encourages desired behaviours and helps your dog associate these previously stressful situations, as well as your interactions with positive outcomes. Conclusion Helping your dog overcome a fear of cars (or any other anxiety) will take time, patience, trust, and consistent practice. This type of training isn't meant to be quick, flashy or sometimes even not necessarily fun. But if you focus on helping your dog feel better about themselves, their environments and your bond, nothing will feel more fulfilling. By gradually increasing exposure, respecting your dog’s boundaries, and reinforcing positive behaviours, you can transform fear into curiosity, and eventually replace it with the feeling of comfort altogether. So, grab your leash, pick a quiet and relaxing neighbourhood, be mindful of your dog’s cues, and take it one step at a time.

3 Common Mistakes Dog Owners Make When Dealing with Barking (and How to Fix Them) All dogs bark—whether they’re energetic puppies or senior companions. While barking can be frustrating, especially when we can’t simply tell them that everything is okay, it’s important to remember that barking is a natural behaviour. To help our dogs manage this, it's critical to understand the reasons behind their barking and avoid common mistakes. Every dog is unique, and the way we handle excessive barking should reflect their individual personalities and environments. To get started, here are three common mistakes to avoid when addressing your dog’s barking: 1. Telling Your Dog “No” It's easy to assume that a firm “No” will stop unwanted barking. However, barking is often your dog's way of communicating anxiety, excitement, or frustration. When you tell your dog "No," without offering a solution or alternate behaviour/way to resolve their emotions, dogs won't understand how to make the situation better. Over time, they may start ignoring you because the cue ultimately does not address their needs. You can think of it as if you phoned your best friend, telling them about the challenging day you just had at work and their response was "Stop right away" and hung up the phone. As opposed to "Is there anything I can do to help?" and continued engaging with you in conversation, helping you express how you're feeling. Instead of saying No, try focusing on redirection. For example, if your dog is barking at the doorbell, redirect their attention with a fun cue they enjoy—like "spin!", "jump" or "Where's the ball?!". Once your dog is calm or feeling like themselves once again, praise them! The goal is to teach your dog an alternative behaviour that you're both happier with, allowing them to feel more in control of their emotions and the options they have. 2. Using a Spray Bottle or Shaking a Can of Coins Many pet parents turn to methods like spraying their dog with water or shaking a can of coins to stop the barking. These techniques may 'work' in the moment but fail to address the root cause of the behaviour. Even worse, they can create permanent, long-lasting negative associations, potentially damaging your relationship with your dog along the process. Your dog might quiet down for that moment (or sometimes indefinitely), but they are likely doing so out of fear or confusion, not understanding what they should do instead and ultimately even shutting down, feeling like they expressing themselves to you leads to the most negative of emotions. A more effective approach is to use positive reinforcement. If your dog stops barking, immediately reward them with treats, praise, or their favourite toy. Over time, they will learn that being calm results in good things and will start offering this behaviour naturally and more rapidly. 3. Punishing or Using a Crate as Time-Outs Crates should be a safe space for your dog—a place of rest and comfort. Using a crate as punishment for barking teaches your dog to associate this safe space with negative experiences, reducing its value as a calming and relaxing environment (that they could potentially choose to go in, instead of barking). Punishment-based devices like prong collars or e-collars can also escalate stress and anxiety, which can worsen barking in the long run, as well as encourage other unwanted behaviours as your dog does their best at finding some form of relief for their feelings. Instead, try creating a calm environment that encourages your dog to self-regulate what they're feeling there and then. If your dog is barking out of stress or fear, guide them to a quieter area of the house or away from the trigger and spend some time with them. Perhaps try playing a game, or getting their nose and ears to focus on a more engaging, rewarding and calming activity like snuffling. Once they’ve calmed down, reward them for their new behaviour and feelings. This reinforces their ability to make better choices without relying on punishment. It's okay if you’ve made these mistakes in the past—we all have! The great thing about dogs is their resilience and willingness to forgive. When we know better, we can do better, and that benefits both our dogs and ourselves. So, next time your dog starts barking, instead of reacting out of frustration, take a moment to breathe. Focus on guiding them toward a better response. Whether it's helping them feel safe or offering a positive alternative, every little step builds trust and strengthens your bond.

Building Focus and Bonding with Chino: Leash Training Around a year ago, I had the pleasure of working with Chino, a curious and affectionate pup, on leash training and other foundational exercises. Our primary goal was to establish focus and communication, even with distractions present. We began with a focus exercise at the door, a crucial step to help Chino understand that my attention and affection are rewards. Despite the sounds outside, Chino remained curious but calm, offering me brief eye contact which I rewarded with affection instead of treats. This approach was intentional, as it was his first time here, and I wanted him to feel comfortable before introducing treats. As we progressed, Chino began to understand that turning towards me and giving me his attention led to positive interactions. His parents mentioned his affectionate nature, and I leveraged this by using my affection as a treat. This method proved effective as he started to anticipate and enjoy our interactions. To further build his focus, we practiced with the door open. Chino's curiosity was evident, but he consistently refocused on me, a sign that he was starting to understand the exercise. This mentally stimulating activity not only tired him out but also reinforced our bond. We also introduced enrichment activities to see how Chino responded to problem-solving tasks. Although he wasn't very interested in food initially, he engaged with interactive toys, which helped build his confidence and mental agility. Our next step involved leash training with the door wide open. I observed how Chino reacted and whether he chose to return to me voluntarily. His curiosity persisted, but he also gave me his attention, which I rewarded generously. This exercise is vital for creating a bond and ensuring he remains attentive during walks. Remember, incorporating physical play and interactive games into your routine is essential. These activities not only tire out your dog but also strengthen your bond, making training more effective and enjoyable. Chino's progress on day one was promising, and I'm excited to continue building on this foundation.

Remember THIS the Next Time Your Dog Is Being 'Difficult' As dog owners, it's easy to feel frustrated when our furry friends don't seem to be cooperating. However, understanding the reasons behind their behaviour can help us be more patient and supportive. Here are some key points to remember the next time your dog is being 'difficult': 1. They Just Don’t Know Even the most trained, capable, and intelligent dogs don’t perceive the world the same way humans do. When it feels like your dog is being difficult or stubborn, chances are they're having a tough time themselves. They might be confused or anxious and could benefit from your understanding and extra support. 2. No Ulterior Motives Humans tend to view the world through the lens of their experiences and knowledge. However, dogs don’t think or act like us, nor do they have hidden agendas. If your dog seems to be refusing your guidance, there's likely a good reason behind it. It’s not because they’re trying to defy you but because they might be confused or distracted. 3. Emotional Maturity A dog’s emotional maturity is comparable to that of a toddler. While dogs and children have their differences, they share key similarities in their need for guidance and patience. Putting ourselves in their inexperienced paws can help us better understand their perspective and emotions. 4. Not Having a Say Dogs play a significant role in our lives, but they don't have the same level of control over their circumstances as we do. The choices we make often don’t take their feelings into account. Given their limited freedom, it’s important to be considerate and give them the benefit of the doubt when they seem to be having a difficult time. By keeping these points in mind, you can foster a more compassionate and understanding relationship with your dog, making life better for both of you.

Enhancing Dog Engagement: A Walk with Gryffin Walking with Gryffin today was a great reminder of the importance of creating positive experiences for our dogs when encountering other dogs. When we have uncertainties—whether it's about the size of the dog, our dog's energy levels, or even off-leash situations—it's essential to manage the situation calmly and thoughtfully. One effective strategy for smaller dogs, like Gryffin, is to pick them up. This allows them to engage from a distance, seeing, smelling, and sensing the other dog without direct interaction. This approach was particularly helpful today as Gryffin seemed unsure about a larger dog that approached us. By picking him up, Gryffin could observe and acclimate without feeling threatened. For larger dogs, or in situations where picking them up isn’t feasible, walking away or maintaining a safe distance can be equally effective. It’s crucial to remember that if we’re unsure, our dogs are likely feeling the same way. Creating a manageable and calm scenario helps prevent negative experiences and builds confidence over time. While at the park, with Gryffin on a long leash, I allowed him to explore freely. The ample space and minimal distractions meant he could sniff, run, and simply be himself without any pressure. This kind of freedom is vital for a dog's mental and physical well-being. By giving him the liberty to roam and engage with his environment at his own pace, I provided Gryffin with a stress-free experience that encourages natural behaviour and curiosity. In moments like these, it’s not about strict training or expectations. It's about letting our dogs decompress, explore, and enjoy their surroundings. Gryffin's ability to run, sniff, and occasionally check in with me exemplifies a balanced and happy outing. Ultimately, our goal is to create positive, pressure-free experiences that help our dogs feel secure and content.

Walking a dog on a long line has become a great experience for both of me and Bear. But let me share with you why I choose to use a long leash, even on sidewalks. Firstly, we just came from an open area where Bear ran free, loosened up his body, and had a lot of fun with me. He loved it, and I didn’t feel the need to switch to a shorter leash afterwards. There are two other main reasons why I use a long line. The first is trust. For an adolescent, Bear is excellent at checking in with me and re-engaging if needed. I don’t have to constantly command him; he engages naturally, which is rewarding for both of us. I trust him to make good choices, and we aren’t in a particularly challenging environment. The second reason is freedom. I want Bear to have a bit more freedom because I trust him. I use a longer leash to allow this. If we need to cross the street, I’ll shorten it for safety, but it’s not because I don’t trust him. It’s just to keep things safe. After our run in the open space, I trust Bear enough not to need a short leash or quick reaction time. He’s doing amazingly well in this setting, so I feel I can reward him with trust and a bit of leash space. As you can see, he engages well with me. If you have a dog you trust and communicate well with, don’t hesitate to use a longer leash. Keep an eye on the environment and your dog's behaviour, and adjust accordingly. A longer leash can indicate trust and good communication, resulting in more freedom and less tension, making the walk enjoyable for both of you.

A Peaceful Walk with George: Navigating Dog Noise Sensitivity George is here with me, enjoying a lovely walk by the tennis courts. Some people are playing tennis, and it's a beautiful day outside. George is happily snuffling around, exploring all the different smells. The reason we're here is to help him get accustomed to small sounds. Tennis rackets, balls, and people playing don't trigger him, but they do create background noise that he's learning to tolerate. George isn't particularly interested in tennis balls, but this environment allows him to focus on other things, like sniffing around, while there's a minor level of noise. He's a bit sensitive to noise, especially cars and roads, so we're starting in a less intense setting. This way, he can associate the experience with something positive, like being outdoors and hearing people play tennis. We're keeping our walk short and encouraging George to move around. He notices the sounds but isn't spooked or startled. Today, he's feeling quite good. Even when he hears a door creak, he looks but keeps moving with me. This practice helps us reconnect and navigate uncertainty together. George has plenty of leash to explore safely in this pressure-free area. This approach isn't just for noise sensitivity but also for other triggers like dogs, cars, and people. In an environment like this, he can look around and make good choices. I have treats ready, though my hands are a bit full right now. Letting him do his thing, we take it easy and ensure he's comfortable. This is our starting point. If he feels good here, it's a successful step. This area is safe and pressure-free, allowing him to be himself. There's plenty of space and time to make choices, setting a foundation for more challenging situations. If this level is difficult, we stay here longer or find something easier before moving on. George is feeling fantastic today, taking in the sights and sounds without stress. After a few poops, he's even more relaxed. We're still near the tennis courts, where he can hear and see people without getting too close. This exposure is beneficial, allowing him to observe and acclimate to minor noises and distant cars. As we near the cars, I'll pick him up to give him a break. He recognizes the route and knows we'll encounter cars soon. Seeing a squirrel or hearing kids, he might get a bit anxious. I keep the leash short and pick him up when we're too close to the cars. This gradual exposure helps him tackle these noises at his own pace. We're nearing the cars now, and George is doing fine. He might pause, but that's okay. I don't want him to bolt, which would mean we've gone too far. Instead, he pauses and looks at me, signaling he needs help. I pick him up for the rest of the walk past the cars, ensuring he feels secure. Once we're in a quieter area, I'll put him down again. He's walking quickly, wanting space from the cars, but he's not bolting. He checks back with me, showing he's managing his anxiety well. This is a good sign, indicating he's regulating himself and staying engaged. As we move away from the noise, George becomes more relaxed and engaged. The further we get from the triggers, the better he feels. This practice helps us identify comfortable distances and gradually work our way up. Each step builds his confidence, making future walks more enjoyable for both of us.

Carlos Answers ChatGPT's Top 3 Most Asked Dog Training Questions Dog training can be challenging but immensely rewarding. As a dog trainer, I frequently encounter a few common questions. Here, I’ll go over three of ChatGPT's most asked questions about dog training and provide some practical tips for each. 1. How Do I Stop My Dog from Barking Excessively? Barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate. It can indicate excitement, fear, boredom, or even anxiety. To effectively address excessive barking, it’s essential to understand why your dog is barking and the context in which it occurs. Here are some strategies: Identify the Trigger: Determine if the barking happens at home, on walks, in the car, etc. Each scenario may require a different approach. Replace the Behavior: If your dog barks when the doorbell rings, practice redirecting this behaviour. For example, teach your dog to go to their bed or fetch a toy when the doorbell rings. This helps your dog associate the doorbell with a fun and rewarding activity. Consistency is Key: Practice the new behaviour when the actual trigger isn’t present. This makes it easier for your dog to learn without the added excitement or stress of the real situation. Reward Alternative Behaviors: Make sure the new behaviour is more rewarding than barking. This might involve using high-value treats, favourite toys, or engaging activities. Remember, behavior modification takes time. Be patient and consistent, and gradually your dog will learn to choose the new behavior over barking. 2. How Can I Potty Train My Puppy? Potty training requires patience and consistency. Here’s a step-by-step approach to help you train your puppy effectively: Log Bathroom Breaks: Keep a detailed log of your puppy’s bathroom habits. Note the times they eat, drink, and go to the bathroom. This will help you identify patterns and predict when your puppy needs to go out. Regular Breaks: Take your puppy outside regularly, especially after meals, playtime, and naps. Initially, take them out every 1-2 hours, gradually extending the time as they get better at holding their bladder. Reward Immediately: Praise and reward your puppy as soon as they eliminate outside. Positive reinforcement helps them understand that going outside is desirable. Prevent Accidents: If you catch your puppy in the act of having an accident indoors, calmly interrupt them and take them outside. Avoid punishing your puppy, as this can create fear and confusion. Gradual Increase: As your puppy becomes more reliable, slowly increase the intervals between bathroom breaks. This helps build their bladder control. By logging their habits and being consistent with bathroom breaks, you’ll set a solid foundation for successful potty training. 3. What is the Best Way to Stop My Dog from Pulling on the Leash? Leash pulling can make walks frustrating. Understanding why your dog pulls is crucial to addressing the behaviour. Here are some common reasons and solutions: Excitement or Energy: Some dogs pull because they have excess energy. Ensure your dog gets enough exercise before walks. Engage in activities that burn off energy, such as fetch or running. Lack of Connection: Establish a strong bond with your dog through training and engagement. Practice commands like “watch me” to encourage your dog to check in with you during walks. Fear or Anxiety: If your dog pulls out of fear, assess the environment. Avoid stressful situations and gradually expose your dog to new environments in a controlled manner. Build their confidence with positive experiences. Training Techniques: Use positive reinforcement to teach loose-leash walking. Reward your dog for walking by your side with treats and praise. Stop walking when they pull, and resume only when the leash is slack. Training your dog to walk politely on a leash requires patience and consistency. Tailor your approach to your dog’s specific needs and behaviours for the best results. By understanding the root causes of these common issues and applying consistent training techniques, you will always be able to improve your dog's behaviour and above all, strengthen your bond with them!