Can't seem to get control on our walks, advice would be most appreciated!?
Can't seem to get control on our walks, advice would be most appreciated!? Dog Breed Discussions
Hello I have a 17 week akbash/anatolian shepherd/malamute/lab puppy who is quite a challenge to walk on leash. So It would be nice to hear from others who may have experience with dogs who can help give me some advice on what ever it is I'm doing poorly and what I can do to make our walks more enjoyable. Here is a typical day for us:I walk her to the dog park everyday on leash (15 minutes to dog park) and we usually spend about half and hour to an hour exploring the penisulas and meeting other dogs off leash. Off leash she is great, she stays by my side + usually listens when I call her and is polite with other dogs + people. (occasionally she tries to steal a mitt or jumps up because she's a puppy and when I ask her to get down or stay down she listens) Once we try to leave and I attach the leash we will walk a short distance and she will throw a tantrum. First she bites the leash and starts growling and then she jumps up on me and tears at my jacket. I will use a firm sound to let her no I disagree with the behaviour and I get her to sit. Then I usually use the scent of a treat to lead her at my side a ways and then I give it to her if she follows nicely. Sometimes this is enough and she starts to trot along my side and all is well. Other days it's such a challenge to get her attention and she starts to shred at my clothes and arms. When I just can't get her to stop I will usually pick her up holding her scruff and hind legs, while keeping her close to my body until she calms down and then we will try again. I am a little person and she is already 35 pounds I can't pick her up forever! I'm just not sure how to gain her respect or what I am doing that sets her off. I try to be calm confident with my head up and shoulders back. I keep the leash short and slack. In the home we have lots of rules and boundries and she listens pretty well for a puppy. I will keep the leash on her when she's walking around the house so she gets use to it and it doesn't seem to bother her. Should I ignore her leash biting as not to give her attention when she does it. Or should I stop and try to discipline her when she does this? Either way I have had her become reactive and agressive. Advice?We will be taking her to puppy classes but until then any friendly advice or tips would be appreciated. About to walk her.Just got back from an hour long walk with Kona. She was perfect, some days are just really easy with her and some days are not...one difference today was that I was in a really happy mood and the sun was shining...she probably doesn't like to be attached to me if I'm feeling out of sorts. I just need to make sure I am in the right state before I take her I guess. I also had the leash really loose today and allowed her a bit more freedom. She's a puppy after all and I probably should focus on making sure she has a good time not just on rules. Thanks for your advice!