Training a dog can be incredibly tough, especially if you get a rescue dog. Keeping control over them when you’re taking them for a walk is one of the most basic things, but also one of the most important.
If you can’t keep them under control, they can run off on their own and might end up getting into a dangerous situation.
That’s why your dog must respond well to your commands when they’re on and off the lead so you can always keep them safe. If you’re struggling with an unruly dog, here’s how to get more control over them.
Build A Bond
This is a very important step when you’re trying to train your dog properly and get them to obey your commands.
If your dog doesn’t trust you, they won’t be as likely to follow your instructions. That’s why it’s so important to build a strong bond with your dog.
This process starts from the very beginning so you need a structured training regime from the outset. Beyond that, you must keep them happy. If you’re going out of your way to make them happy and comfortable that bond between the two of you will be much stronger.
Make sure that you keep an eye on them to see if there is anything bothering them and always get them plenty of toys to play with around the house.
The more your dog trusts you, the easier it will be to keep them under control.
Get The Right Lead
The right lead can go a long way when you’re trying to keep your dog under control. An extendable lead can be a good solution because you can let your dog run around while still maintaining control so they can’t escape you.
However, it doesn’t inspire discipline because they’re free to run wherever they like rather than stay close to you.
You might be better off with a shorter rope dog collar and lead. Giving them that limitation will help to teach them discipline and they’ll be better behaved.
Use Rewards Sparingly
Rewards are the best way to encourage good behaviour in your dog but you’ve got to be careful with them.
If you’re rewarding them too much, they won’t respond as well to it. If you take them out for a walk and they stick close to you until you let them off the lead and then come back right away when you call them, you can reward them when they get back.
But if they take ages to come and you really have to work at it, don’t reward them just for coming back to you. That tells them that it’s ok to make you wait.
Be patient.
This is the most important thing to remember. It’s going to take a long time to change your dogs behaviour and you need to be consistent if you’re going to make it happen.
If you try something for a couple of weeks and it doesn’t work so you switch to another strategy, you’re never going to get anywhere. Persevere with it and eventually, you’ll get results.
If you follow these steps and be patient with your dog, they’ll start listening to your commands.
