How can I help my dog on walks?
Right before walks my dog gets extremely excited and during the whole walk he stays that way. I’ve been trying to get my dog to walk next to me but nothing I do works! He is also a medium sized dog and very strong so sometimes if he sees another animal I have a hard time controlling him. I try not to let him near other dogs or people because since he’s so excited and energetic he starts jumping and when meeting a new dog he gets very tense and will even try nipping the other dog! I am lost at what I should be doing. Should I try maybe running with him instead or walking since he’s energetic? Also, what is better a retractable leash or a normal one? Thank you.
Well first I would not even put my dog’s leash on until my dog accepted a sit command and kept it while the leash was being attached. You want your dog calm and submissive before, during, and after the walk. He will not walk beside you or behind you until he sees you as alpha. Once you have achieved a calm sit, this may take a while and a lot of patience to achieve, attach his collar and walk him to the door. this is where most dogs try to take the lead again. Repeat the sit exercise until he again submits a calm sit. BTW here it is crucial that you do not pet, or give affection no matter how much those cute eyes beg. If you do not ignore him till he complies with the sit he assumes he controls you. After he sits at the door, you may begin to try to open it. If he becomes excited shut the door and go back to sit routine. when you open the door and he still sits beside you, then you walk out the door first and give a gentle tug on the lead as an invite outside. Repeat sit commands if you see any hint of aggression toward other dogs on the walk, and as he walks with you if he tries to gain lead give a gentle tug and sit him if you have to . Make him understand that you are the boss, otherwise you will never have control of him.
ps a retractable leash is easily broken by a larger breed. If this dog is large I would suggest a very sturdy thick lead to prevent it from failing.
Flexi Medium Retractable 16 Foot Classic All Belt 2 Leash