The Proper Way to Handle a Dog’s Leash

Walking your dog should be a fun and rewarding experience, nurturing a strong bond between you and your furry friend. Handling the leash correctly ensures safety and control!

Below are seven tips for your next walk.

Choose the Right Leash and Collar

Before delving into the proper leash techniques, it is crucial to have the appropriate equipment, namely the right leash and collar (or harness).

If you missed our last blog post about leashes and how to choose the correct one for your dog and the activity you’re about to engage in, click here to read it now: “Dog Leash Length: It All Depends on the Activity.”

Choose a well-fitted collar or harness, depending on your dog’s size and behavior. A harness is often preferable as it distributes pressure more evenly and reduces the risk of injury to the neck and throat, especially for young puppies or senior dogs.

But, a harness may not be ideal for dogs who love to use their strength to pull. Consult with a professional dog trainer, behaviorist, or dog walker if you need help choosing between a collar and harness for your dog.

Effective Leash Handling: The Basics

• Position the Leash Correctly:
  • Hold the leash with your dominant hand for more control and strength.
  • The leash should pass through the palm of your hand, with your thumb pointing towards the dog and your fingers wrapping around it.

• Keep the Leash Short but Relaxed: Maintain a short leash to keep your dog close to you. However, avoid keeping the leash too tight, which can cause stress and pulling behavior in your dog. Any tension or pulling on the leash will travel down to your dog, creating a negative response. Also, a shorter leash in areas with heavy foot or vehicle traffic will keep your dog close to your side and safe.

• How to Deal with Pulling: If your dog tends to pull, stop walking and stand still until he returns to a calm state. Reward calm behavior with happy praise or treats, and resume walking. Consistency and patience are the keys to effectively reducing your dog’s pulling behavior.

AKC: 10 Tips to Stop Your Dog from Pulling on the Leash

• Maintain a Proper Posture: Stand tall with your shoulders relaxed. Keep your arms slightly bent and close to your body for better control. Avoid wrapping the leash around your wrist, which can cause injuries if the dog pulls unexpectedly.
• Communicate with Your Dog: Use verbal cues and calm body language to communicate with your dog. Teach basic commands like “heel,” “stop,” and “sit” to ensure your dog understands what is expected during walks.
• Encountering Other Dogs: When approaching other dogs, maintain a short leash and observe each dog’s body language.
  • If the dogs appear friendly, allow a brief, proper greeting (approaching from the side, not head-on).
  • If either dog does not appear friendly, calmly redirect your dog and continue walking.
• Avoid Distractions: Always stay attentive and alert! Avoid distractions such as using your phone while walking your dog. Enjoy this time with your dog! Staying focused will ensure a safe walk.

Conclusion

By choosing the right equipment, mastering proper leash-handling techniques, and staying attentive, you can ensure a positive walking experience for you and your dog. Consistent practice and patience will reinforce good behavior, prevent unwanted behaviors, and strengthen the bond with your furry companion!

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