How can I walk a dog without using leash?

@cocooreo (705)
Malaysia
October 7, 2008 4:55am CST
I hope somebody can advice me how to walk a dog without the need of using the leash. I have seen some owners manage to let their dog walk freely without worrying the dog will run off. I am so envy them. So, any suggestions for me so that my dog will be obedient and always walk by my side at all situations?
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1 response
@minx267 (15526)
• Hartford, Connecticut
7 Oct 08
well, I think this all depends sometimes on the dog (the type of dog) and the dogs bond and trust with you. My first dog was very good and did not run off and we showed him trust and he just stayed- many dogs require training to do this. You can teach recall using treats. Usually easier with 2 people. standing farther and farther apart also using a LONG leash like 20 feet. when he gets very good at coming WHEN you call him because he wants to - give him praise and not so many treats. teach him good obedience and remember to have patience. A dog that loves and trusts you will be very happy to stay by your side. (granted there are always those dogs that are the exception- certain breeds just like to run or run off- like huskies and greyhounds and they probably will and should require leashes- especially in cities. I have done it successfully with a couple of dogs and I also have a couple I do not trust. it all depends.. good luck to you.
• United States
7 Oct 08
You are right it does depend on the breed of the dog. On larger dogs you can use a shock collar to tech them but I never liked the idea of it myself. Some dogs like huskies are just natured to run and they have to be on a leash or they will run. Some of your smaller dogs seem easier to train. I had a yorkie that was very trainable. Now I have a husky which is not! LOL Beautiful animals but very active. Have a nice day!
1 person likes this
@cocooreo (705)
• Malaysia
8 Oct 08
I have two dogs. One is Australian Silk Terrier, and the other one is Cocker Spaniel. As both of them run very fast, I am very worried if I release them from leash then I would never catch them back. Very appreaciate with your advise and will try it on both of my dogs. :) Waiting to hear more advice... anybody?
@minx267 (15526)
• Hartford, Connecticut
8 Oct 08
If you start training them to recall (or come) I would do it individually first until they are listening. because if you try to train 2 dogs at once- they will just distract each other- and you need each dog to be concentrating on only you. Then if you have some place like a park or someplace fenced - I would try first there -off leash to see if they have learned to come when called.. But little meat treats is a great way to get their attention when you first start. Good luck