Controlled walk notes
Leash should never be tight, should always
hang loosely. If pulling tight, flick leash to shake or snap chain in order to
gain dog’s attention. Direct dog to move closer to you so that leash is no
longer tight, and change something (direction, pace, or stop altogether) Praise
during and after change, praise after corrections on the move. For example, dog
is pulling ahead. Speed up a little bit then snap the lead as you slow down and
at the same time say, “GO EASY”, then right away say, ”What a good dog!” because
the correction should have brought her into position. You should have one hand
on the leash most of the time, not two. Keep your elbows snug against your
sides. Feel where the dog is rather than
look. In a controlled walk, the
corrections are a snap or pop or shake the chain, change direction of travel
unexpectedly and follow through with something else now. There is a difference
between the change
of direction and the about turn while heeling. Change of direction does not give the dog a chance if he is not
paying attention. He is going to get snapped and he has to catch up because you
are now suddenly nine feet away from him. With the about turn while heeling (in
competition), the handler actually steps around the turn to allow the dog to
keep pace.
Remember, when the collar snaps, your voice
should be praising the dog. “Hey! What just happened” Act as though you had
nothing to do with the correction. The leash did it; not you. Keep your voice
tone ”up”.
You must anticipate your dog’s next move
and decide your next move. Use the correct snap on the lead. Use the correct
tone of voice for commands. If your dog is lagging constantly, entice him to
keep up using a happy voice instead of more correction. Three tries and things
should work; if not try something else. Be especially aware of timing with
commands and corrections. Think about when it should happen. Mix up the practice routine to avoid boring
your dog.
