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pickinmix
Aug 13, 2011, 11:12 AM
How do you train a LARGE dog to walk on the lead?
It is 1 year old and has never walked on a lead and pulls you every where

tickle
Aug 13, 2011, 12:58 PM
If you have a large dog (how large and what breed), and the dog is a year old, then I would advise you and he/she take an obedience course. Dog trainers are easy to locate in any area and usually it is a group setting which is good for the dog and you for socializing.

Tick

Cat1864
Aug 13, 2011, 01:05 PM
Do you know what the dog's breed(s) is? Sometimes it can help to know what the dog was bred for to get an idea of what will work best in motivating the dog to work with you instead of against you.

One of the easiest ways for both you and the dog is to use a 'head-collar' such as a Halti (Halti the original and still the best (http://www.halti.co.uk/)) or one of the body harnesses designed to stop a dog from pulling. They do not replace the traditional collar. Instead they work with it.

Both items take working with the animal to get it used to the device.

A few tips:

1. If the dog starts pulling, stop. You don't move until the dog calms down and responds to you. Another method is to turn around and go in the opposite direction for a step or two before going in the direct you want to go. Give the dog praise and treats when it is doing what you want.

2. Work on obedience on the leash and off. Give clear commands and make certain that everyone uses the same ones. Instead of saying 'No', give commands such as 'off', 'down', 'leave it', 'wait', etc. The more clear you are in what you want, the better the dog will respond.

3. Be patient but firm. You are the one in command and you expect to be obeyed. The larger the dog, the more important it is to have the dog look to you for guidance. Without, you will end up being pulled all over the place.