Tips from a Dog Behavior Specialist in Kansas City on How the Leash Can Be Your Friend

Walking your dog should be enjoyable. Unfortunately, that’s not the case for many KC dog owners. It can be downright frustrating. Dogs might pull or lunge. They might bark. They may even refuse to move. This can make walks stressful.

Your leash can be a helpful tool. It is more than just a piece of equipment. The leash is a line of communication between you and your beloved pet.

As a reputable dog behavior specialist in Kansas City, K.I.S.S. Dog Training wants you to transform your mindset about the leash. This can help lead to better dog behavior. Not to mention stronger bonds.

Let’s explore how to make your leash a valuable asset.

So Why Do Dogs Pull on a Leash?

Many dogs have never been taught that pulling on a leash is bad. It’s easy to think that dogs were born knowing how to walk properly with a leash and collar. Unfortunately, that’s not the case. Your dog must be taught how to walk and behave properly during their walks.

For more information on why some dogs will pull on their leash, check out this blog.

Where to Start?

With leash walking, it’s all about taking small steps. Literally! Try starting inside the house to get your pup comfortable with the leash/collar and the walking process. Then you can take the next step and go to the backyard or driveway. After that, try walking by a couple houses down the street. Then maybe extend the distance to a couple blocks.

Just continue to build in small increments. You and your furry friend will soon develop trust with each other during your regular walks.

Why Should You Walk in Small Increments at First?

One of the biggest reasons to not push too hard at the beginning is the distractions. We know that dogs take notice of their surroundings. This could be other dogs, squirrels, birds, people jogging/walking, moving cars, bike riders, etc.

By starting small, and not venturing too far away from home, this is a good precaution to take before you start venturing on extended walks. Keep building in small phases and eventually you’ll be ready to extend your walks to longer distances and trails.

A Longer Leash May Be a Good Option for Early Training

An experienced Kansas City dog trainer, we know that using a longer leash can be beneficial in the early walking stages. This is so your dog can practice going out and coming back as part of the walk. If or when the dog pulls, you can call back and reset the walking. It’s all about laying the foundation now. Because in the future, you’ll want probably want to go on longer walks, using a standard-sized leash.

For more information on how to deal with a dog that constantly pulls on their leash, check out this blog.

Changing Communication

A leash walk isn’t centered on control. It’s all about communication. It should not become a power struggle. If it does, the dog will resist. Use the leash as a clear and gentle tool for guidance. If there’s no tension, things will progress in a positive manner.

K.I.S.S. is proud to be a respected dog behavior specialist in Kansas City. We stress timing and owner confidence. Don’t mistake this for “dominance.” Dogs need to know expectations, and the leash provides the path. Dogs can sense your hesitation and frustration. Thus, the leash works best when used in a calm, purposeful manner.

No Quick Fix

As a Kansas City dog behavior specialist, we know there’s no such thing as a “magic leash.” Go ahead, buy the best leash on the market. See if your pup automatically improves its behavior. Trust us, it won’t happen.

When it comes to dog training in Kansas City, coaching the human makes all the difference. The equipment is secondary. Your technique and mindset are far more important than the leash. Stick to the tips we outlined earlier in this blog, and be patient. You will see progress, just don’t rush the process.

We emphasize consistency with every Kansas City dog training plan, especially when walking a dog using a leash. No matter if your dog is a rescue or a puppy, routine and repetition are crucial. If your leash training is weekly… progress will be slow. If your training is more frequent… your dog will recognize the routine.

Your Dog Wants You to Lead

You don’t have to be a professional dog trainer in Kansas City. Your dog just needs a calm and confident presence in their life. Dogs want a connection… not always perfection.

We have helped countless dog owners get over the hump when it comes to leash training. At K.I.S.S., we believe every dog has the utmost potential… with the right guidance. We’ll help you get there, one step at a time.

Conclusion

It’s common to get upset after a leash walk goes south. With the right approach, the leash can be a powerful tool that connects you and your furry friend. The leash can lead to learning and growth without the need for dominance or control. Your leash can build an unbreakable bond between you and your dog. We’ve seen it happen many times before!

We Are Your Source for Professional Dog Training!

K.I.S.S. Dog Training has been a leading dog behavior specialist in Kansas City for over 15  years. We take pride in strengthening the relationships between owners and their dogs. We believe it’s essential for humans to understand what their dog needs and the best ways to help them get it.

Contact us online or give us a call at 913-269-7595 to partner with a trainer. We are located in Shawnee and service Overland Park, Olathe, and the Kansas City metro area.

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