Some tips on lead techniques
5 March 2024
A long lead can give a dog more freedom of movement on walks in open fields and allow them to move away from a trigger and sniff and explore.
Sniffing can be a relaxing activity. Some dogs feel very frustrated on a lead and will react because of tension.
Here are some tips on holding the lead
It can be a hazard to drop a lead. Place the lead over your wrist and inbetween your thumb and forefinger. This will help to keep your wrist safe.
Hold the lead with both hands so you can guide the dog or pull them away if you need to. Perhaps the trigger has surprised you or come too close.
What lead to choose
Ensure you have a lead that does not chafe on your hands.
Ones that do not get all wet and soggy and therefore could slip out of your hand.
Have a lead that is suitable for your dogs weight and therefore does not risk breaking.
Instagram may mislead you into imagining that children and puppies are a wonderful mix and your days will be filled with snoozing puppies and trips to the park amidst the daffodils. Just like many things on Instagram, expectation vs reality are very different!
Here are some reasons why a dog may be on the lead:
If you have recently got a puppy you may be finding it overwhelming, stressful, upsetting and something you’re beginning to regret.
I am reaching for my ice water bottle at every moment I possibly can!
Why do I work on vet referral?
Separation related challenges
What is a nervous system?
Being on the other end of the leash when a dog is barking and lunging can be painful stressful and upsetting.
There can be lots of different reasons why a puppy may not be walking. I’ve had this question quite a few times. Many puppies won’t walk outside but will run home when they reach their street.
Are puppy pads for toilet training the answer? When you’re toilet training your puppy it can be confusing to know what to do. You may have heard that puppy pad’s are the answer. Let’s discuss this. Remember that physically a pup’s bladder is very small.. they can’t hold it for too long! They don’t go to the bathroom indoors to spite you. Also remember that some dogs may not be going to the bathroom – they may be marking scent by doing very small pee’s.
