I don't know what I was thinking.........

So we don't take Cosmo for walks basically b/c he is soooooooooo strong and uncontrollable - he pulls my hubby around like a rag doll. We just play with him in the yard, in the house and that is how he gets his exercise.

So I get this bright idea to start walking him b/c I'm determined to get him to be able to walk with me..........I have burns on my hands and wrists from the leash cutting into me. I tried giving him treats to stay near me......I got dragged to the point I almost lost him b/c he saw a squirrel.

Its been 3 very long days with VERY little improvement. THe mere mention of the word "walk" he goes BALLISTIC which is adorable but I don't know how much more I can take. I love being with him and having "my time" with him but I can't handle him.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Re: I don't know what I was thinking.........

I'm probably going to get blasted for this, but do you use a choke collar?
When we first got Misty she was terrible on the leash...she pulled the entire time...I started using a choke collar and training her to heel, she is like a different dog on the leash now. I don't even hook her lead to the choke collar (although I still have to put it on) and she walks right near me without pulling (usually).

Re: I don't know what I was thinking.........

Slide collars are not bad if the dog is not controllable, but there are also harnesses available to help stop pulling. I would not recommend a prong collar, especially if you are inexpereinced with them.

Also try to attach the lead to a belt if you can so that you can give your hands relief if you need. They make special "Dog Walker Belts" that are for multiple leads, but they work for single leads too.

In addition, keep some treats (very small training treats) in your pocket. As you are walking your dog shake the can/container and every so often when the dog looks at you or heels, say Hell then good, then give a treat.

PetSmart sells a great training treat. The display is usually near where they hold classes. If you want an alternative Cheerios are good too.

Re: I don't know what I was thinking.........

Would you consider a trainer? I highly recommend Bark Busters.

Re: I don't know what I was thinking.........

We've been working with a dog trainer, who suggested a head collar called the gentle leader, it's made a huge difference with my pooch. We also talked to the vet about it, who agreed to give it a try.