Leaves and pulling

[Discussing Labradoodles & Goldendoodles]

Help! Decker will absolutely not stop eating leaves lying around in the yard. I'm concerned about him getting ahold of something that will make him sick. I can tell him "leave it," "no," try to redirect and just lead him to a less leaf-littered part of the yard. All to no avail. Any suggestions? It's a rental house so even if we were to buy a rake to get up all the leaves, there are so many trees around that they blow into the yard from every direction. I know he'll eventually outgrown it, but what can I do in the meantime?
Then there's the pulling. We use a fabric martingale collar and he pulls so hard on walks that he chokes himself and ends up gagging and coughing. In addition, I'm disabled and it makes it very difficult for me to walk him. He's only 14 weeks old and a little over 20 lbs but he's strong as an ox! I'm concerned about him pulling me right down into a fall. After three strokes and being on blood thinners for the rest if my life, that's something I would prefer to avoid. I intend on talking to our trainer later this week, but was wondering if anyone else has had this issue and how you overcame it.
Whew, sorry for the long post, just needed to ask for opinions on both of these issues.

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Tammy, I use both. I switch up the situations to keep his attention.
I still have an excited puller on occasions especially in new situations. He just gets so happy and elated. Not always a good outcome in those first moments.
I weigh the situation we are going into if I'm trying to plan and choose a collar accordingly. So, keep a few favorite techniques that work well for you and your dog

[Tammy and Violet]

I try whatever works ! yup .. tried them all ....she pulls when we see dogs and people I am still having a really hard time whne people come into my house... I have her on a leash but man she does not settle down and listen to me at all ......suggestions ?

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Exactly! ;)
They do not hurt. Place it on your own upper arm ;)
If used gently and properly they simulate a mothers mouth on her pup. It's dog speak, but so many humans don't understand. I often use one with a scarf because i get tired of comments. Flat collars can do more harm to the trachea too! A good trainer, like you have, instructs the proper use of the prong.
You can get ones with quick release.

[Chelsie]

A good trainer is essential when using a slip or prong collar for sure! When used properly they don't hurt the dog. The hardest part in dog training is actually training the humans! Once I started thinking like my doodle I started seeing amazing results in his training!

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

A good trainer is essential when using a prong- LIKE

[Tammy and Violet]

Eddie  what ever works for you and your pup is all that matters..they are very strong ... Violet is 22 lbs and man o man ....phew......