Walk this way: How to train your dog to walk politely!

When your dog pulls while out on a walk, it quickly turns into a negative and reinforcing experience for both of you. Examine your options and the reasons why changing the harmful behavior is crucial.

Dogs that pull can be seriously injured

A dog that pulls while wearing a collar runs the risk of suffering serious injuries to the esophagus, cervical vertebrae, and the entire back. The damage will be even worse if you are one of those persons that simply tugs on the rope to make things flow smoothly. It is challenging to watch your dog's injury especially because it can't express how painful it is.

Few people believe that there is a link between pulling dogs and dogs who have a lower appetite. But it is possible, because a dog who pulls on the collar might inflict severe injury to the masticated esophagus. It might be uncomfortable for the dog to eat and naturally diminishes its appetite.

Pulling might also cause the dog to experience muscle stress or back pain. It is unable to discern. Instead, it might become slightly incensed or overtly hostile.

The ideal course of action is, of course, to prevent and avoid the injuries, but if they have already happened, we advise getting in touch with a reputable dog masseuse who can help the dog de-stress and get back on the correct path. A calmer dog may also benefit from massage.

The dog walker can also get injured

When a dog pulls, others are also negatively impacted. Additionally, there is a significant chance that as a dog walker, you could get hurt. You will tense up your body if you have to hold onto your powerful dog all the time. Your elbows may hurt, your knees may twist slightly, and you may feel generally uncomfortable. Additionally, there is a greater risk of injuries from falls, particularly in the winter when it is slick.

Overall, a walk with a tugging dog is really uncomfortable, and in the worst case, you can entirely lose interest in letting your dog out for a stroll. The issue just worsens from there.

Tools to stop the dog from tugging

There are numerous harnesses and halters available to help your dog walk properly. Some of them work, while others do not. Some function by causing the dog pain when it pulls. We cannot, of course, promote them.

• Halter for dogs
  A halter is a thin harness that is put around the muzzle of the dog. It is the most successful method for getting the dog to walk nicely. When a dog is wearing a halter, even a large and powerful dog can be held with a single finger. The halter takes some getting used to for the dog, so keep plenty of treats on hand. Many individuals believe that halters appear violent and give the dog a little angry countenance. It's a pity because the halter is usually the best option. 
• Anti-pull harness
  An anti-pull dog harness works similarly to a halter in that it pulls the dog to one side when it tries to pull forward. Unlike the halter, the harness is worn on the chest and seems to be a standard harness. It's also incredibly effective and well worth a shot. 

Aids that we do NOT recommend

• Choker collar
  Choke collars are highly regarded in several dog training facilities and clubs. They frequently use "traditional" training techniques, which in my opinion are outdated and out of sync with more contemporary positive training techniques, some of which are more enjoyable and some of which have better supporting evidence for both dog and owner. Why do you use a choke collar if you know that yanking on the collar could harm the dog?
• Spike collar
  Drilling sharp spikes into the dog's neck will accomplish nothing. The dog is hurt. It hurts and wants to flee. As a result, it merely pulls even harder to advance. No, that is not helpful.
• Braces that tighten around the armpits
  Once more, we cannot suggest a dog-harming training technique. Both sides must enjoy and find the process enjoyable. What does it do to the dog to harm it?
  
• Ordinary dog harness
  A standard dog harness will not stop your dog from pulling. In contrast, a standard harness allows your dog to suddenly pull with all of its muscles.
  

Train the dog so that it does not pull

Whatever tools you employ, they should not be used in isolation, but should be combined with specific training. An hour or two with a dog trainer or dog behavior therapist can be really beneficial.