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Strolling On a Leash Plus Staying: 2 Important Commands
Many dogs have an aggressive side, and you often see this when they are on leashes. Dogs that are normally well-behaved can lunge and snarl at other dogs and people as you walk down the street. While he needs exercise, you do not want to put others at risk. What can you do about leash aggression?
Skipping walks is not an option and may exacerbate the problem. Can you curb leash aggression so your daily walks aren't nightmares?
Learn to anticipate your dog's behavior before he acts aggressively. If you see something that will trigger him, divert his attention. Tell him to sit or lie down. This will keep his mind off the trigger until it has passed.
Dogs are masters at reading our body language. If you tense whenever you pass a person or another dog, your pet will pick up on it. He may think that you are scared and want to protect you. It is best to stay calm and act as if nothing is wrong if you can so your dog does too.
Some dogs may require a gentle leader harness or muzzle. These should only be used temporarily until your dog learns not to lunge. If you have a dog who is a danger, they can keep others safe. This is the first priority.
If you have tried to curb leash aggression and your dog still misbehaves during walks, it is time to find a good trainer. You need professional help to stop this at once: not only is it disruptive to your own walks, it is dangerous to everyone and every animal you pass on the sidewalk.
Many dogs pull and lunge when on a leash. If your dog displays this very natural reaction to being on a leash, it is vital that you take action as soon as possible so it doesn't become either an irritating habit or a dangerous one.
The stay command is one of the most useful for your dog. While indicative of a well-trained dog, the stay command can also keep your dog safe in different settings. To help facilitate teaching this command, use treats and praise liberally.
First, tell your dog to sit or lie. When he does, put your hand, palm towards the dog, and say, "Stay." Use a firm voice.
Your dog may only be able to stay for a second or two at first. No matter how long he stays, remember to praise him and give him a treat. He will be able to stay longer as he practices.
As he progresses, teach him when it is time to move. Many people say "Come" or "Ok" to release their dogs. Again, make sure to praise him and give him a reward - this makes the training process much easier and quicker.
As you work with your dog, you can lengthen the time your dog stays. Demand a little more each time before you give him his treat.
Optimal training should last about five to ten minutes at a time. Any more than that will strain your dog's attention span and counteract your efforts.
Another way that dogs are like children is that they have short attention spans! If you require him to train for longer than ten minutes, he is likely to become obstinate and disobedient. Also keep in mind that he'll have to have a lot of practice in order to perfect the command. Repeat "Stay" several times and be prepared to reteach him the command a few times.
Soon, your dog will be able to stay even if you leave the room. Even if you phase out the treats, remember to praise your dog for this accomplishment.
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