Loving our Walks: Building Partnership on the Leash

Walking puppers should be a joyful experience, a time for you and your furry friend to connect, explore the world around you, and enjoy each other's company. It shouldn’t be a stressful struggle, marked by pulling, zig-zagging, and a lack of control. Fortunately this is easy to overcome. By fostering a partnership built on communication and understanding, leash walks can become a delightful conversation between owner and dog.

At the heart of successful leash training is the recognition that dogs are individuals with their own personalities, preferences, and motivations. Rather than demanding strict obedience and a robotic heel, focus on building a sense of teamwork and cooperation. Think about how your dog interprets the world, and become a participant in their ground-level experience of it. Building trust helps them be more willing to participate in our world as well.

Start by using positive reinforcement techniques to build a positive connection and sense of togetherness. Our week-one training is all about ensuring the dog checks in with you frequently while walking. When Fido sees you as a partner in the outdoor adventure, they are motivated to engage.

Next we work on problem behaviors like pulling. These take a little time, so it’s important to be patient and never get frustrated or punish your dog. Being your dog’s #1 source of joy, fun and motivation is the key to distracting them out of a pull. With a little practice and consistent repetition, it starts to feel easy and natural. And guess what, this is what having a conversation with Rover is all about.

Remember to keep the walks engaging and enjoyable for both you and your dog. Allow your dog to sniff and investigate their surroundings. Engage in those activities with them, for example asking “what’s in the bush?” and encouraging them to check it out. Then use positive reinforcement to refocus them on you. Allow them to go out ahead once in a while - bonus treats if they get to the other side of the crosswalk first.

There are so many fun and enriching games to play together, such as “find it” or “catch treats.” Walking and “talking” (in dog language) becomes a joyful, multi-sensory experience for both you and your dog, stimulating your minds and bodies while strengthening your bond. By listening to your dog and respecting their needs, you demonstrate that you are a reliable, fun and understanding adventure partner.

Above all, be patient and persistent. Building a strong partnership takes time and effort, but the rewards are well worth it. With patience, consistency, and a focus on partnership rather than strict obedience, you can transform your leash walks into positive experiences for both you and your dog. So, lace up your shoes, grab the leash, and embark on a journey of discovery and connection with your four-legged friend.