Definition

When taking the dog for a walk, it is important that they are adhering to the behavior of loose-leash walking. The dog should stay in a heel or side position (not crossing sides, lagging, or pulling ahead) during the walk and ignore distractions and maintain focus and attention on their handler.

The reason walking is working is that when they go to their client, they need to stay near them at all times and not exhibit behaviors such as pulling or sniffing, which could be dangerous to the client.

Guidelines for Walks

• 1 dog per person
• Have a good grip on the leash
  • Wrist through the hole and hold
• Practice walks with and without cape
• Ensure the dog always stays connected to you
  • Never drop the leash

• What to bring:
  • Treats
  • Poop bags
  • Ready focused mindset

Expectations - Walks are a Privilege not a Right

Walks may not look how you ideally would like them to. If you want to go on a nice walk with the ability to relax, it might be best to leave the dog at home if they cannot properly walk with a loose leash.

In order to obtain loose-leash walking, you will need lots of:

• Treats - the dog’s kibble
• Patience - make sure you are in a good mindset
• Focus - have all attention on the dog
• Time - don’t rush

Take a look at the Loose-Leash Walking Webinar for more information

It all starts when they are puppies!

Expectations Based on Age: 10-16 Weeks

• Easily distractible
  • Needs constant reinforcement
  • Will pick things up off the ground
  • Average distance is 1-2 blocks
    • May not even get that far
  • Very low expectations for walking ability
  • High rate of reinforcement with cookies (every 1 to 3 steps)
    • Reward the puppy for just staying close to handler
  • No running
    • Protect open growth plates