My Dog Pulls. What Do I Do? summary

Understanding the Problem

In My Dog Pulls. What Do I Do? by Turid Rugaas, the author begins by explaining why dogs pull on their leashes. She points out that dogs are naturally excited by the sights, sounds, and smells around them, and the tension on the leash only serves to increase their excitement. This excitement is often interpreted as the dog being 'dominant', when in reality they are just responding to their environment.

Rugaas emphasizes that dogs do not naturally understand the concept of walking beside a human. Instead, they see us as members of their pack and want to be part of the action. Therefore, the author suggests that the first step in resolving this problem is to understand the dog's perspective and to address their needs.

Starting the Training Process

Once the problem has been identified, Rugaas moves on to discuss the training process. She recommends using a 6-foot leash and a flat collar or a harness to ensure the dog's comfort and safety. The author also advises against using choke collars or retractable leashes, as they can be harmful and counterproductive in teaching a dog to walk politely.

Rugaas introduces the concept of a 'loose leash' and explains that the dog should be rewarded whenever they walk without pulling. She suggests using treats, toys, or even just praise as rewards. The author also highlights the importance of consistency in training and the need to practice in various environments to generalize the behavior.

Communicating with Your Dog

Communication plays a pivotal role in training a dog to walk politely. According to Rugaas, it is crucial to establish clear signals to let the dog know when they are doing the right thing. She introduces the concept of 'pressure and release', where the dog learns that the tension on the leash is released when they move closer to the handler.

Rugaas also discusses the importance of body language in communicating with dogs. She explains that our posture, movements, and even breathing can convey important messages to our canine companions. Learning to use these signals effectively can significantly aid in training a dog to walk without pulling.

Dealing with Challenges

In the latter part of the book, Rugaas addresses common challenges that may arise during the training process. For instance, she offers advice on how to handle a dog that refuses to walk or becomes overly excited during walks. She also discusses ways to manage multiple dogs on a walk and how to deal with unexpected distractions.

Rugaas emphasizes the need to remain patient and calm, as dogs are highly sensitive to our emotions. She also encourages handlers to be flexible and to adjust their training methods according to their dog's individual needs and personality.

Conclusion: A Happy Walking Companion

In conclusion, My Dog Pulls. What Do I Do? by Turid Rugaas offers a compassionate and effective approach to training dogs to walk politely on a leash. The author's emphasis on understanding the dog's perspective, clear communication, and positive reinforcement can help transform walks from stressful struggles to enjoyable experiences for both the dog and their human companion.