Yikes! Tight Leashes

Let's Loosen Up

If everyone in this picture said their puppy's name and the pup looked at their person, the leashes would become loose, and the handler would be able to further guide their youngster. It takes practice on the human end of the leash to loosen it up. Giving out some slack, and say the pup's name. Reward when the puppy heads your way.

When leashes are loose dog's are better able to remain calm, there is less tension obviously. Starting your training in a controled environment such as your home or a well organized group class will help the handler learn loose leash skills and build your dog's interest in you. When a person pulls on a dog's leash the dog has no option but to pull away. When the leash is loose the dog is able to choose walk back to you.

I often see trainers have the leash wrapped up in there hand because the feel they need to 'hold on' but in fact because of that tension the dog wants to pull away.

I recently ordered "The Buddy System® is a unique hands-free
leash system designed to make it easy to take your best friend along." http://www.buddysys.com/
Watch for some blogging on that it will be nice/interesting to be hands-free while walking dogs.

Holding onto a loose leash will help you and your dog relax. Maybe you are not using the correct equipment for your dog. This dog is comfortably wearing a harness that hooks at his chest, this give his person the confidence that she will have control of her young dog. Watch for my blog compairing collar, harnesses, and halters.