Leash walking for small dogs: tips and tricks
Leash walking is just as important for small dogs as it is for large ones. Regardless of whether you are walking with your Chihuahua, Dachshund or Yorkshire Terrier, good leash walking not only ensures a pleasant walking experience, but also ensures the safety of your four-legged friend. In this blog post you will learn how you can train small dogs to walk on a leash.
Why is walking on a leash important?
Walking on a leash is not just a question of obedience, but also of safety. Small dogs are often faster and more agile than larger breeds, which can cause them to get into dangerous situations if left off-leash. Good leash walking helps prevent accidents and ensures that your dog does not endanger himself or others.
Personally, I often have the 'problem' of easily overlooking my little Chihuahua and often losing her out of my field of vision when I'm outside, which has already caused me several half heart attacks.
1. Choose the right equipment
Before you can start training, it is important to choose the right equipment. Invest in a high-quality leash and a harness or collar that fits your dog well. You can even get everything tailor-made for your furry friend in our shop. A harness is often a better choice for small dogs because it distributes pressure evenly across the chest and relieves strain on the neck.
2. Basics of leash walking
Before you begin training, make sure your dog has mastered the basics of leash walking. This means that he walks next to you on a loose leash without pulling. To encourage this behavior, reward your dog when he walks next to you in a relaxed manner on a leash.
3. The “Follow me” command
An important command for walking on a leash is “follow me.” Train this command by luring your dog in front of you with a treat or toy and using the word "follow me." As soon as your dog follows you, reward him.
Just like us humans, dogs also love rewards ;)
4. Consistency and patience
Keeping small dogs on a leash requires consistency and patience. Remain calm and collected, even if your dog pulls or is distracted. Use positive reinforcement to reward good behavior and gently correct bad behavior without punishing your dog.
5. Introduce distractions gradually
Your dog won't walk perfectly on a leash right from the start. Therefore, gradually integrate distractions into your training. Start in a quiet environment and gradually increase distractions. This helps your dog focus on you, even when things are exciting around him.
Conclusion
Leash walking for small dogs takes time and commitment, but it is critical to your dog's safety and well-being. With the right training and equipment , you can teach your little companion to walk comfortably on a leash. Remember, patience and positive reinforcement are key to success. If you take the time to be consistent with your training, you will soon experience the joy of enjoying relaxing walks with your little dog.