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Giving Your Dog Freedom From The Leash
Many dog owners are left with the decision to decide whether or not they want to let their dog and furry companion off the leash. It's important not to rush too soon in taking this step. Dogs should be allowed to be off the leash after they master the most basic obedience commands such as sitting, heeling, and staying putt on command.
Another skill that should be mastered before owners take their dogs off the leash is to have the dog come when summoned on command. Even though the dog can heel, stay and sit on command, if they can not be relied to come at the owners demand when called, they aren't ready to be taken off the leash just yet.
You are responsible for your dog any time you take him or her out to a public space such as areas that are crowded, busy or containing a lot of traffic. It is a responsibility not to be taken lightly, therefore it is essential that you adequately train and make sure that your dog is never a safety threat to themselves or the general public before taking him off the leash. The leash is your main avenue of control and you are likely to rely on it before relying on any of your voice command before taking your dog off the leash.
After you properly train your dog to stay, sit and come when commanded, it is very important to also challenge your dog by introducing your dog to other people, animals e.t.c while the dog is contained in a safe environment such as a yard or a fence. For example, have a friend stand just outside your yard or fence and have them start to walk away, if your dog at this time starts to pull forward on the leash, gently but quickly tug back on the leash and this will let your dog know to stay back. Repeating this exercise once or twice a week will allow your dog to know when to stay by your side. Eventually you will want to drop the leash and see how your dog does at staying by your side without the leash to tug him back.
After your dog knows when to stay by your side and come when called, find a local dog park and practice this exercises with your dog with the leash as well as without. Whenever your dog is obedient of your commands, reward them by giving praise, hugs or a treat! Rewarding your dog for good behavior will teach them that certain behaviors result in positive reinforcement. Always make sure that you are in close contact and properly supervising your dog at all times in public spaces.