How to Train Your Stubborn Dog to Walk on Leash

Hello Carol, If all the tools and methods that you have tried have failed while trying to train him on your own, then I would recommend that you seek the help of an experienced trainer in your area. Even one lesson with the right trainer can help you determine what approach your dog needs. I would recommend looking for a trainer that utilizes multiple tools and techniques, rather than a Positive Reinforcement only trainer or a solely Punishment/Escapism or Dominant based trainer. Also look for someone who has experience successfully treating reactive and aggressive dogs, because these types of trainers will have more experience in general, and will be more likely to think out of the box and try things that you have not tried yet. When you work with a trainer, sign up for a private training session if you are able to. A private session will be tailored to you and your dog, and will not just teach standard training methods, that work for other dogs, but not for yours. Also look up videos of how to fit certain training devices properly. Many of the devices on the market are only effective for more stubborn dogs if they are worn in the right location, fitted right, and used with the right timing. A good trainer should be able to help with these things as well. If the trainer cannot show you how to properly fit a recommended tool, then do not use that trainer. He or she is likely inexperienced. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden

Hello Alistair, First, do a little detective work. Does she seem at all nervous or frightened of anything - it could be something in the area you would never notice - like a barking dog, cars passing, holiday decorations, ect... Is the ground really hot or cold? Burns from really hot or icy ground can create fear of walking. Is there anything else that seems to indicate fear, pain or discomfort about continuing to walk - like cold weather and no thick fur. If you determine that there is a fear or discomfort, start by addressing that issue. For example, if it's cold and pup doesn't have tons of fur, try letting her wear a good quality dog jacket that insulates from the cold but allows her to go potty unobstructed still - look up ruffwear.com for examples of this. For cold or hot ground, get her used to wearing dog boots. For fears, work on spending time in that area doing fun things, such as practicing tricks with treats, playing fetch on a long leash (where it's safe to do so), and simply hanging out with belly rubs. Act confident and upbeat not sorry for her if she is afraid. If she simply seems to want to return home just because that's her preference and there isn't a fear or discomfort that needs to be addressed (if there is you have to address those first), then she simply needs to learn that you are leading the walk and stopping isn't an option. Check out the video linked below. When she stops, give quick short tugs on the leash over and over, giving slack between tugs - not pulling continuously, until she gets up and follows. Reward with a treat when she starts following again. The idea is to make stopping uncomfortable - it gets comfortable for her when she starts walking again because the tugs stop and she is given a treat. Once you have done this for a bit, then only give treats for continuing to walk, not for starting again - so she won't learn to stop and start to get a treat. Heel Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OTiKVc4ZZWo Once you know the issue is just a matter of her not wanting to walk and not fear or discomfort, you attitude should be that walking is non-negotiable. You should be calm but a bit stubborn about it. Best of luck training, Caitlin Crittenden