July 14, 2011
My dog has become leash smart. She does great with the leash on, even when dragging it around, but as soon as it comes off she doesn't listen. What would you suggest?
Full Question:
Hi Cindy,Ever since I got my dog (Australian Shepherd mix - 8 months old) 6 months ago I've been on your website, watching your DVDs, podcasts etc nonstop. I cannot thank you and Ed enough for helping me overcome some of the issues I've ran into. She is a great dog and amazingly smart. The problem that I have come across with her which frustrates me beyond belief is that she is leash smart. I can bring her outside and when I leave a short 4 ft leash on her to drag around, she is amazing. We can go to the park and play tug/ fetch without a hitch. The moment the leash comes off, she is a complete nuisance and acts as if she is almost trying to herd me. She barks at me and runs around and there is nothing I can do to catch her. This doesn't happen every time I've tried to take her off leash which isn't much but it does happen. I was wondering if this might be a maturity issue, genetics or improper training and if there is something you would recommend I try to begin preventing this as she gets older. I appreciate your help and thanks again for the information you have provided. I love watching you and Rush working together too.
Thanks!
Ryan
Cindy's Answer:
I’m going to say that your dog has not earned the right to be off leash. Very few 8 month old dogs have the level of training and repetition to deserve being off leash.
By doing what you have been, you have trained her to be leash wise. This is your mistake, not hers.
This is simply skipping too many steps before a dog is trained. My dogs have been known (depending on the dog) to drag a leash for a year or more ALL THE TIME. In the house, outside, it doesn’t matter. My dogs are well trained because I am an absolute stickler about this, there is no quick fix.
I’d recommend The Power of Training Dogs with Food because this will teach the very basics of engagement. If your dog isn’t engaged, then the leash should never come off.
I hope this helps.
Cindy Rhodes
By doing what you have been, you have trained her to be leash wise. This is your mistake, not hers.
This is simply skipping too many steps before a dog is trained. My dogs have been known (depending on the dog) to drag a leash for a year or more ALL THE TIME. In the house, outside, it doesn’t matter. My dogs are well trained because I am an absolute stickler about this, there is no quick fix.
I’d recommend The Power of Training Dogs with Food because this will teach the very basics of engagement. If your dog isn’t engaged, then the leash should never come off.
I hope this helps.
Cindy Rhodes
100% (13 out of 13)
respondents found this answer helpful
Can't find what you're looking for?
100% (13 out of 13)
respondents found this answer helpful
