Does your dog dash out the door, pulling you along behind.
If you dropped the leash, would your dog even notice?
Does your dog pay more attention to the distractions outside than you?
If you answered yes to any of those questions, you're not alone! This is one of the most common complaints I hear from owners. Their dog doesn't even know they exist once the dog is outside. Thankfully, there's an easy remedy to this situation.
You'll need:
- a clicker
- delish treats
- 6' leash (no retractable leashes!)
- regular buckle collar (no prong or choke collars!)
Leash your dog, put your treats in a fanny pack and have your clicker ready. Open the door, step outside and wait for your dog to look at you. Don't move any further than just outside the door. As soon as your dog looks in your direction, click and give him the treat. You may have to reach and put the treat in his mouth if he's really distracted. Then just wait some more. Click every time your dog looks in your direction. If you're using super high-value treats, your dog will start looking at you more often than he's looking at his environment.
Here's a video of my four dogs so you can get a feel for what this exercise looks like and how to do it. Each piece is only about two minutes long.
Super-duper advice. We trained this for exits from the car as well.
This is exactly what I need to keep Cayenne from leading me down the sidewalk (though I can still direct turns, etc.). Thanks, Laurie! 🙂