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5 Vital Strategies to Help Your Old English Sheepdog with Loose Leash Walking
If you are an Old English Sheepdog owner, you are likely well aware of how challenging it can be to walk your furry friend on a leash. These lovable dogs are known for their independent streak and high energy levels, which can make leash training a difficult task. Fortunately, there are several strategies and techniques that can help your Old English Sheepdog become a well-behaved walker. By working on training, providing plenty of exercise and mental stimulation, and using the right equipment, you can help your furry friend learn to walk calmly on the leash and enjoy your time together outdoors.
1. Start with Basic Training for Your Old English Sheepdog
“But wait,” you say. “I just want my Old English Sheepdog to stop pulling on the leash! Do I really need ‘basic training’ too?”
The answer is: it depends. While its possible to train your Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog
A no-pull harness is an excellent tool for training your Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog Starts Pulling, STOP Walking
Consistency is key when training your Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog
If you’re struggling to teach your Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog to walk calmly on a leash, making walks more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
Our 2 Favorite Online Training Programs for Old English Sheepdog Leash Pulling
- SpiritDog makes an excellent and affordable training course called “Loose Leash Walking” that’s an excellent resource for Old English Sheepdog owners. The course promises to teach your Old English Sheepdog 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 Old English Sheepdog to stop pulling on the leash is an essential aspect of being a responsible pet owner. It not only ensures their safety but also makes the walking experience enjoyable for both you and your furry friend. There are various techniques and tools available to help you with this task, but it’s crucial to find the one that works best for your dog’s temperament and personality. Remember to be patient, consistent, and positive while training, and always reward good behavior. With time, effort, and dedication, you’ll soon be able to enjoy leisurely walks with your well-behaved Old English Sheepdog.
Toledo, United States.
