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5 Vital Strategies to Help Your Jack Russell with Loose Leash Walking
Jack Russell Terriers are active and energetic dogs that love to explore and play. However, this energy can translate to pulling and tugging when walking them on a leash. This can be frustrating and even dangerous if they suddenly dart off after something that catches their attention. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to help your Jack Russell learn to walk calmly on a leash. In this article, we will explore some of the most successful techniques and strategies to teach your Jack Russell to walk nicely on a leash and enjoy safe and comfortable walks with you.
1. Start with Basic Training for Your Jack Russell
“But wait,” you say. “I just want my Jack Russell to stop pulling on the leash! Do I really need ‘basic training’ too?”
The answer is: it depends. While its possible to train your Jack Russell to stop pulling on the leash without training other commands, all training becomes easier if you start with a solid foundation, such as training your Jack Russell basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” (as an aside, if you’re looking for a solid overall training program, we really like the K9 Training Institute’s program or SpiritDog’s program, both of which include modules on leash pulling)
Before heading out for a walk, spend some time training your dog inside your home or in your yard. Use positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and affection to reward your dog for good behavior. This will help your dog to associate good behavior with positive rewards.
2. Buy a No-Pull Harness for Your Jack Russell
A no-pull harness is an excellent tool for training your Jack Russell to stop leash pulling. Unlike a traditional collar or harness, a no-pull harness is designed to discourage your dog from pulling by gently applying pressure to their chest. When your dog starts to pull, the harness will tighten, and your dog will feel a slight discomfort that will discourage them from pulling. Using a no-pull harness can be a safe and effective way to train your Jack Russell to walk calmly on a leash.
We love the Rabbitgoo brand no-pull harness on Amazon, which has almost 150,000 reviews.
3. Be Consistent: When Your Jack Russell Starts Pulling, STOP Walking
Consistency is key when training your Jack Russell to loose leash walk. It’s essential to use the same techniques every time you take your dog for a walk. For example, if your dog starts to pull, stop walking and wait for your dog to calm down before continuing. Be patient and persistent, and your dog will eventually learn that pulling won’t get them where they want to go.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement like Training Treats
Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective training techniques for stopping leash pulling. When your Jack Russell walks calmly by your side, reward them with treats, praise, and affection. This will help your dog to associate good behavior with positive rewards, making them more likely to repeat that behavior in the future. Avoid punishing your dog for pulling, as this can make the problem worse by increasing their anxiety and frustration.
Our test pups LOVE these bacon flavored Pet Botanics training treats. They are small enough size that you can give a lot of them, and not overdo calories.
We’d also recommend a handy training treats pouch you can wear on your belt during walks.
5. Try an Online Dog Training Course for Your Jack Russell
If you’re struggling to teach your Jack Russell loose leash walking, it may be time to seek professional help through and online dog training course. A professional dog trainer can provide you with personalized advice and techniques to address your specific issues. They can help you to identify the root cause of your dog’s pulling and provide you with effective solutions to correct the behavior. With the help of a professional trainer, you can teach your Jack Russell to walk calmly on a leash, making walks more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
Our 2 Favorite Online Training Programs for Jack Russell Leash Pulling
- SpiritDog makes an excellent and affordable training course called “Loose Leash Walking” that’s an excellent resource for Jack Russell owners. The course promises to teach your Jack Russell to stop pulling in 10 minutes a day. You can also get feedback from real, professional dog trainers.
- K9 Training Institute Makes an Excellent, Well Rounded Dog “Masterclass” that includes modules on loose leash walking. While it’s a bit pricier than SpiritDog, it offers a solid foundation and solutions to nearly any behavior challenge you might face. The course uses the same material that professionals use to train service dogs, so the quality of the material is top notch.
In conclusion, teaching your Jack Russell to walk calmly on a leash is an essential part of their training and development. While it may take some patience and persistence, there are several effective techniques and strategies that you can use to help your Jack Russell learn to walk nicely on a leash. Remember to use positive reinforcement and avoid punishment, as this will help your Jack Russell learn more quickly and enjoy the process. With the right training and consistent practice, your Jack Russell can become a well-behaved and obedient walking companion, making your walks together safer, more enjoyable, and more relaxing.
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