Leash Training Dogs : Having Problems with Your Labrador on a Leash

One of the most important parts of owning a labrador will be having the responsibility of helping him or her to exercise. Almost always, this will mean walking with your dog. It has been said that giving your dog physical exercise will be 50% of your relationship with him. It's not always easy to find the time to walk your labrador but it's definitely important. In order for you to walk him, he'll need to know how to behave on a leash.

It's too bad that a certain amount of dogs as pets have a problem being on the leash. It almost could be compared to a horse who does not want to be ridden. Some dogs have a simple conversion to being on a lead. Being afraid of the leash likely leads to tremendous fear, submissive behavior or neurotic tendencies whenever you take out the leash for walking.

The average dog or Labrador sees the leash as a time of enjoyment. It's a time that he can spend with his owner. A time that you will be able to get out of the house and explore with his pack leader. He knows that the leash means he will get to walk. That means new smells, things to see and overall bonding with his master. That's how all dogs should react towards the leash, but it's not true on every count.

A small selection of dogs immediately experience fear and submissiveness with regards to the leash. It's possible that previous experiences with the leash have created these feelings. Maybe a previous owner or handler has dragged him around too many times before. Maybe a short leash has kept them from moving about for a very long period of time preventing him from going potty, eating, etc.. Some owners or handlers have actually used the leash as a whipping tool. In other instances, the dog may simply be fearful of almost any new thing he comes across.

On the lighter side, this problem with the leash can be cured once and for all. You simply need a little patience along with decent equipment to work with. The overall goal will be to replace your dog's poor feelings of the leash with good feelings and experiences.

First, it's important to have the right equipment for getting this job done. A shorter leash made of leather or strong woven nylon will be sufficient. You don't want the dog getting tangled in a long leash. Besides, you also will be better off not getting tangled especially in the beginning when your dog is learning how to use a leash. Therefore, adjustable length leashes should not be used.

Additionally, avoid chained link leashes at all costs. They not only can be hard on your hands but could also hurt your dog inadvertently. Getting hit with a chain link leash will definitely hurt whether it's done accidentally or not. Pain resulting from this will definitely not ease your dog's feelings about using a leash.

Second, you need to use a good-quality caller made from either nylon webbing or sturdy leather. The caller needs to stay harnessed to your dog under various levels of force. It will be important to keep your dog under control. Chain collars should not be used at all. People will use these for fashion or training, but they should never be used as a real collar.

Third, you'll need to bring some patience and effort alone to get the job done. Nothing will happen without you doing something and doing it with patience. Know that your dog will become at ease with the leash eventually as long as you stay patient.