How do we teach dogs to follow us? — Balanced Dog Training

How do we teach dogs to follow us? 🤔

1️⃣ First, we teach them to come towards leash pressure by using a tool that gets their attention when they feel tension on the leash and can immediately be made slack to relieve tension when they choose to come towards us. We prefer Herm Sprenger prong collars, slips leads, or martingale collars depending on the dog’s needs. This teaches them that they can turn off leash pressure by coming towards it instead of pulling against it.

2️⃣ Then, we reinforce a side position and handler awareness by using rewards and leash guidance depending on their choices. This teaches team to focus on the handler’s body position and adjust theirs accordingly so they can find the path of least resistance and more rewards.

3️⃣ Lastly, we work outside/around more distractions/locations while continuing to enforce new rules and reinforce good choices. This teaches them that their choices matter no matter where we go and that they can trust their handler to be consistent with directions and advocacy. This stage is indefinite, as there’s a never ending amount of distractions throughout life!

No matter what kind of dog you have, taking the time to educate yourself and your dog can improve your lives together and strengthen your bond. The teamwork and improved behavior that is built through training can lead to many more opportunities and adventures. This work will never get old for us! Again and again, we love helping animals and people live more peacefully. 🐾❤️🥰