Dogs on a leash 101

What a beautiful day in San Diego! I just got back from another great walk in Balboa Park with the boys (Niko and Tyson). If you see me in the park with my dogs on leash, you probably notice I never stop to let other dogs say "hi". Typically I will say hello to you and keep on walking. Why? You ask...

When your dog is on leash a couple of things are happening all at once:

1st: When your dog is leashed, it should be training time. Whether on a walk or sitting on a park bench, if your dog is leashed all he should be concerned with is your next move. This is the best training time you have. The only thing your dog should be allowed to do while on leash is listen to you. Sure, you can play, walk, run. But while doing all of the above, your dog should be constantly 'checking in' with you as to what the next move should be.

2nd: When on leash, your dog is feeling a bit vulnerable in part because he is protecting you. Instantly when that leash goes around their neck, they know that protection is what it's all about. So when you allow other dogs to come up, you're just asking for trouble. Have respect for this. It's such an important piece of your bonding.

The opposite is true as well. If you're headed to dog park - take your dog off leash. For the all the same reasons. There's nothing worse than a dog feeling vulnerable on leash and handfuls of other dogs come running up to him. That's disaster waiting to happen.

Remember when walking on leash your energy is carried down to your dog via your leash. Just like an extension cord - the energy you're tapping into is the energy your putting out there. The behavior of your dog is all about you. No exceptions. A great EGO/behavior/emotional check in station for you is to watch your dog: Are they too hyper? Do they listen? Are they too aggressive? Are they too passive? Are they too lazy? Do they get enough exercise? (do you like that trainer plug?)

A dog just like our partners, friends, bosses, employees and the random person who just cut you off on the freeway are all mirrors for us. Providing us with a detailed description of all the issues we need to work on ourselves. So the next time you feel someone is treating you unfairly, take a good look in the mirror and ask yourself: Who are you treating unfairly? Maybe that person is staring right back at you. And, the next time your dog is pulling you around and not listening... Ask yourself: Who am I pulling around on a leash? Who am I not listening to?

Alright, take all that mumbo jumbo, throw it together and voila! A perfect recipe for a well trained dog and a well trained dog owner.

Barks and Tail Wags,

Michael