How to stop your dog pulling

When you allow your dog to pull on the lead it puts him to the head of the pack and leader thereby destroying your right to lead.

• Start the process before you leave home.  Ensure your dog is calm before putting on the lead.  If your dog then rushes to the front door, don't pull him back, stand between him and the door and slowly walk forward so that your dog has to move back and make sure you have enough space around you to open the door.  At this stage your dog should be waiting for your next command - if he has moved forward just calmly repeat the exercise of standing in front of  him and ensuring he moves back .
• The next stage is to walk out of your home with your dog on the lead following you.  If you allow your dog to lead you out, he will remain the leader throughout your outing with him.
• You need to be calm and confident and if your dog tries to pull in front as soon as you start your walk, don't pull him back as a dog's instinct is to pull harder.  If he is just in front of you lift the lead up so the pull comes from above and not behind the dog or preferably pull the lead sideways towards you.  When your dog is walking right by your side or slightly behind you, this is a good time to reward him with a small titbit.
• Also practise stopping at regular intervals and ensuring your dog stops immediately as he should be looking at you as the leader (if he does it is a good time to give a small treat) and when you move off again he should follow without further commands.
• You will notice that I have not mentioned any verbal commands - although you can say NO just before pulling on the lead upwards or sideways, it is your body language that your dog will take more notice of.  By calmly repeating the exercise time and time again, he will  accept you as the leader and will actually calm down and you will both enjoy your walk even more.