Proper position.
Whether walking, jogging or standing still, the dog should be on your left side with his head even with your left leg.*
Draw the dog into that position by patting your left hip or thigh and saying “heal!”, “come here!” or something similar. Be consistent with words and tone and always reward the pup with a simple “good boy” and pat in the head.
How to hold the leash.
- Hold the leash with your right hand. Leash crosses in front of your body to dog standing or sitting on your left side.
- You may use your left hand to grab the leash if ever needed to shorten leash and gain more control.
Remember, we want the pup to learn that a loose leash is desirable. We DON’T want a tight leash. Go back here for more help on this is needed!
- Note – Why do most people walk a dog on the left side? The tradition exists primarily because most people are right-handed. This is personal preference, however. Walking with the dog on the right may feel more natural to left-handers!
