Walking Your Dog:6 Tips to Establish Pack Leadership
Walking Your Dog:6 Tips to Establish Pack Leadership 2025
Using a short leash gives you more control, which is essential for establishing yourself as the pack leader. Attach the leash to the top of the dog’s neck; this will allow you to more easily guide your dog.
2. Stay in front
If your dog has a sense of control during the walk, he will see himself as the pack leader. But your dog will see you as the pack leader when you walk in front of it.
This starts from the moment you leave the house. Make sure you walk through the door first. The dog can walk behind you or beside you.
3. Walk for a minimum of 30 minutes in the morning
Don’t end the walk as soon as your dog relieves itself. Set aside at least 30 minutes for walks, and go for as many as 60 minutes if possible. The needs of each dog breed are different. Consult your veterinarian, and monitor your dog’s behavior to ensure its needs are being fulfilled.
4. Reward your dog on your terms
After your dog has relieved himself, allow him to wander about sniffing around. However, you will need to dictate the beginning and the end of “reward” time. If he resists your tug on the leash, tug a bit harder until he obeys your “command” to start walking.
Never yank your dog around. Gentle tugs on the leash should be sufficient enough for him to follow your lead.
5. Stay in the lead
Stay in the lead even after you’re done walking. Make your dog wait as you remove her leash and/or remove your shoes.
6. Reward her after the walk
By giving your dog a meal or snacks after you walk, she will realize that she has to “work” for food.
These are just some tips to get you started on the road to becoming your dog’s clear pack leader. There are some important reasons to establish this leadership role. The only way you can successfully do it is to be consistent and disciplined in your approach.
