You know that walking your dog has many benefits, but did you know there are benefits to walking your pup on a long line? Walking your dog on a long leash will give your dog a sense of freedom, yet keep him safely contained. Before teaching your dog to walk on a long leash, you should first understand how and when to use a long dog leash. Walking your dog on a long line is a whole different experience for you and your pooch. It is much more challenging for your dog to hit the end of the leash and pull – long lines are great for pullers! Taking your dog on a sniff walk using a long line is fun for them. They can wander and sniff much further and don’t have to zig-zag because of a short leash.
Pulling Not Allowed
Just because your dog is on a long leash doesn’t mean you should allow pulling. Pulling is a behavior that you should correct. When your dog succeeds at getting what they want on occasion, you will find teaching loose leash walking a much more challenging process. As always, consistency is crucial. It may take you much longer for your walk, you might not even leave your street in the beginning, but once your pup learns not to pull your walks will be much more pleasant!
Polite Behaviors, Please!
Because long leashes give your dog more freedom, you must ensure your dog is acting politely on the leash. In addition to not pulling, you should be sure your dog will come when you call him and sit when asked. Dogs on long leashes can get to items before you can. You want to ensure your dog doesn’t gobble up garbage before you can get to it or start to chase a cat or squirrel. Polite behaviors ensure a successful long leash walk.
Recommended Leashes
All my favorite long leashes can be purchased on Amazon. Some of the better brands are:
Conclusion
Changing up how you walk your dog gets them mentally stimulated and always keeps them guessing as to what you will come up with next! We want to hear all about your long leash walks! Tell us how it went!
If you need help with your long leash training, we are here to help. Contact us for a private training session!