Looking for a comprehensive Border Collie leash training guide? Continue reading.
It is not fun to walk a Border Collie that is constantly pulling the leash during walks. Owning a Collie that pulls you around can easily discourage you. Moreover, you will have to walks as fast as you can. However, if you abruptly stop your dog’s walk, he may end up disturbing you even more during future walks.
Why Leash Pulling is a Problem
To correct this problem, you need to understand why your Collie is pulling on his leash. Otherwise, you won’t manage to stop the habit. You may think the Border Collie is pulling the leash because of dominant behavior. However, most of the time it’s not. Your Border Collie may simply be excited about going for a walk. This is mostly common with dogs that don’t spend enough time outside.
Since your Border Collie has been home doing nothing and now has a chance to explore the outside world, he’ll be very excited and will definitely pull on the leash. Your Collie will be all over the place, trying to follow new scents, meet new people, explore the neighborhood and get some exercise.
Most dogs know that going for walks normally last for a limited period of time. They will therefore want to do everything within the time they spend outside. The walk will not be that fun or exciting for you since you will have to keep on shouting “drop it”, “no” and “stop”. You will even end up having a bruised hand because of the leash pulling.
Most people with such dogs make the mistake of reducing the time they walk their dogs. This is not good for your dog because he will become more excited on the next walk, and there will be more leash pulling.
How to Train a Border Collie to Walk on a Leash
Leash training is an important aspect of any dog’s training, and it’s no different for Border Collies. Here are some steps to follow for Border Collie leash training:
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Start with Basic Commands
Before you even think about leash training your Border Collie, it’s important to start with basic commands such as sit, stay and come. This will establish a foundation of obedience that will make leash training much easier. See the Border Collie commands you should know.
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Choose the Right Leash
When it comes to leash training, the type of leash you choose is important. A shorter leash will give you better control over your Border Collie and prevent them from getting distracted. A good leash option for Border Collies is a 6-foot nylon leash.
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Introduce the Leash
Once you’ve established a foundation of basic commands, it’s time to introduce the leash. Start by attaching the leash to your Border Collie’s collar while they’re inside the house. Let them get used to the feeling of the leash without any distractions.
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Practice Indoors
Before taking your Border Collie outside for a walk, it’s important to practice indoors first. Attach the leash to your Border Collie’s collar and walk around the house, using the basic commands you’ve already established. This will help your Border Collie get used to walking on a leash and following your lead.
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Start Slow
When you’re ready to take your Border Collie outside for a walk, start slow. Choose a quiet area with few distractions, and keep your Border Collie on a short leash. Use the basic commands you’ve already established to guide your Border Collie.
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Reward Good Behavior
Positive reinforcement is key when it comes to leash training. When your Border Collie follows your lead and walks well on a leash, reward them with treats, praise and affection. This will encourage good behavior and make leash training more enjoyable for both you and your Border Collie.
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Be Patient
Leash training takes time and patience, especially with a high-energy dog like a Border Collie. It’s important to be patient and consistent with your training, and to not get frustrated if your Border Collie doesn’t catch on right away. This is a key thing to keep in mind during any Border Collie training session.
Border Collie Leash Training Tips
Now that you have a better understanding on why your dog might be pulling on the leash during walks, you can learn how to handle this problem. The following tips Border Collie leash training tips will help you.
- If your Collie becomes excited each time you bring out the leash, don’t put it on him until he is calm. If your Border Collie is jumping, begging and whining, tell him “no” and try to make him sit. Only put the leash on your dog when he is calm and siting down.
- If your dog becomes exited after you have put the leash on him, you’ll have to try to calm him down again. Don’t make the mistake of opening the door while he is still excited. Your dog may end up becoming more excited and anxious as he waits, but don’t worry about it. This is a way of teaching him to be patient if he wants to go out for a walk.
- When you are outside with your Collie and he begins pulling on the leash, stop as soon as this happens. Make your dog sit and wait. Let him know that you are the boss and you decide when and where to go. Don’t allow your dog to pull you to wherever he wants to go.
For the above tips to work, you will have to be consistent each time you go for a walk. Also, encourage other members of the family to use this tactics. You should walk your Border Collie more often so that he will avoid pulling the leash.
Conclusion
Leash training a Border Collie can be challenging, but with patience, consistency and positive reinforcement, it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. By starting with basic commands, choosing the right leash, practicing indoors, starting slow, rewarding good behavior and being patient, you can successfully leash train your Border Collie and enjoy many happy walks together.
