The Zim Family Cocker Spaniel Forum

I have a 5 month old puppy that I am still having problems walking on a leash with. I have tried the technique of stopping whenever she pulls and she has learned to sit and wait for me to go. But the moment I start walking, she darts ahead. Does anyone know of other techniques I can try as well? I am in the process of finding an obedience class where I live but am hoping to figure out the leash walking so I can take her on longer walks. I live next to a dog park and we take her there at least two times a day so even after a tiring dog park session she'll still muster enough energy to dart on the leash as we walk back home. Thank you for any advice

Some of that is just puppy energy, but to teach her to heel - hold the loop of the leash in your right hand and about halfway down in your left and keep her on your left. Take 5 or 6 steps and as soon as she starts to pull, then turn to your right and make a "U" turn, saying "heel" and VERY gently giving a slight tug. You should probably lean over a little so you aren't pulling UP on the leash - you want the movement to be more horizontal. Practice walking and turning. If she's still pulling, take fewer steps and do the same thing until she's walking on your left and not pulling. Treat her with something really yummy that she doesn't normally get (chicken, hot dog, etc.). And it's good to practice when she's tired as you'll get a little less of that puppy energy.

Thank you for the tip! I tried this today and she seems to be catching on :) Thanks!

Excellent advice.

You can also practice this in a field/car park etc where you have more space. Just walk short distances and change directions frequently. Don't yank your dog around, just walk away gently if they don't follow immediatley. Praise loads when they change direction with you and give a treat if they catch up with you. Eventually your puppy will start paying close attention and stay much closer to you to get the treat quickly - and voilà, you've got your loose lead walking.