Two weeks of leash training, and my doodette is still pulling...

[Sara & Trix]

I was so excited in early July when Trixi finally got her last shot! We had been leash training in the house and yard in anticipation of being able to start walking as soon as possible. I was also very aware that our first dozen walks would be challenging, even if she got the concept of heeling in puppy class, in the house and in the yard. It's been two weeks now (and over 30 short walks) and I every time she pulls, I stop, lead her back to the heel position, she sits, I praise and give a treat. Then, three steps later, she's pulling again. I've also tried holding a treat in my left hand while walking to guide her...but that usually only works for a couple steps before she lunges for the treat, or looses interest and runs head. Some days we don't even make it to the end of the block! So I have two questions....first, am I being too hopeful thinking that she should have gotten the concept by now (she's now 4 months old)? Second - does anyone have advice or person experiences they could share that could help me? I'm a first time dog owner, so I'm not sure if I'm missing something here. Thank you!!!

[Traci -Bexter & Maggie]

I CAN'T WAIT to read the responses here!  Bexter (my 13 week old mini goldendoodle) sounds just like your Trixi.  I actually started my own method last night.  When he pulls (which is his biggest problem now), I let him go til the end of the leash & he gets a JERK and a NO.  Then I just stand there.  I wait for him to realize I am not going anywhere with that kind of behavior.  He finally does, wimpers, and then comes back to my side.  Then, I praise and say LET'S WALK.  And he does...for about 30 seconds, then the cycle starts again.  I feel like walking is a reward & he should realize he can't do it unless he does it my way.  We'll see.  I just started.  And I kind of just made this up because I didn't exactly agree with what my trainer told me to do (which is basically let Bexter dictate what he does on his walk).  My way seems similar to what you're doing though.  I bet (I'm inexperienced also) that it takes LOTS of time & practice to get it right.  I will sit back & wait for the more experienced DK responses!  Good luck!

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

This sounds good what you are doing, we also call their name and turn and start walking the opposite direction then turn again when they are back at your side. Sometimes I feel like a dork doing this and we do the stop and sit. Mine are 3 &4 and still pull on the leash and yes they have been to class. Myla woorks perfect when it's just me and her, with Chloe it's more like a race. Patience-no frustration or they win!

[2m42srv7vi6sq]

LOL!  We have been obedience training since 2008, with Caeleach and SHE STILL PULLS!  Try using a "No pull halter".

It's the only thing we have found really works with a chronic puller.

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Peri is 2 1/2, has her Canine Good Citizen and STILL PULLS. We use a gentle leader.

[Camilla and Darwin]

Allyson, how did you deal with the CGC test? I am almost positive Darwin could pass every step, except the loose leash walking one. He only does well with his easy walk harness. Did you just tire her out before?

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Peri was a good performer for the CGC.  We worked on this element TIRELESSLY and it was the biggest pain.  BTW they have approved the use of harnesses for CGC test.  I think you will be surprised with what Darwin can do under pressure.  Peri totally puts on her training hat when she is near our trainer.

[Camilla and Darwin]

The easy walk harness, or just a regular harness? We really need to start rigorous training again. Even then, we'll probably tire him out before the test as well...

[Adina P]

Remember the CGC doesn't require perfect leash walking without cues.  You can make kissy sounds, talk to Darwin, pat your leg, and such things as you 'walk through a crowd'.

[Bonnie and Kona]

We started out in obedience class where the teacher told us to get a prong collar. I did and now Owen at 10 months doesn't need it anymore. The prong collar worked great for him. She is not too young to learn to heal.

[Linda, Webber and Seda]

I have used a prong collar on both of mine.  Now they can walk tethered together and not pull.  I had tried the gentle leader and all kinds of positive training.  The prong collar worked.

[Bonnie and Kona]

May I correct my verbiage and say she is not too young to begin to learn to heal. I hope it didn't sound like she should be doing a perfect heal.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Our Springer is a leash failure because he is so hyper and we never got heel solid.  We are going to get a prong collar for him.  Currently we use a gentle leader.  Your dog is still a pup and certainly trainable.  Clancy and Ned are good on-leash.  Clancy is a 65 pounder so if he wanted to pull he would.  We used a specific method of training, but a tip that would work for you is to let the leash go slack,  turn and go the opposite way of where she is pulling - reverse, opposite side whichever way is opposite. Hold the leash at your belly button with both hands and be ready to forge ahead.  It will jerk the dog to going your way and you will be telling her that you are boss and she needs to keep up with you.