Honest Mike's People Training Tips

Hello all, it's time for the first installment of Honest Mike's People Training Tips! Today's segment touches on a touchy subject; Dogs and people on a leash.

First things first:

1 Walking your dog with a leash attached. 

It is important to teach your dog how to behave while tethered to you. Zak George is a real dog trainer, as opposed to Honest Mike who just thinks he knows everything, so I suggest you follow the link and train yourself how to act when you furry little friend is attached to you.

Now that you have learned how to walk with your dog on a leash, it's time for the next step. And here's where Honest Mike will undoubtedly ruffle some feathers:

2. Walking with your dog without a leash.

Let me be clear, I love my dogs and want nothing but the best for them. Occasionally I let them off the leash, but only in places that I believe are safe to do so. Is everyplace safe? No. There are distractions and danger everywhere. But I know that the dogs in my life are truly alive when allowed to run free. We share a bond stronger than nylon or chains, and in the appropriate place the freedom that I allow makes our bond even stronger. Little gives me more satisfaction than watching my dogs running wild, and then making the choice to come back to me.

The dogs run, and explore, and dig things up, and feel what it is like to be wild and free, but with the comfort of their protector close by. By establishing proper pack order, and creating an invisible bond between us their ancestral roots and impulses are allowed freedom of expression, and they are better dogs for it.

3. Bringing them home.

Walks are great, but coming home is even better. Allowing your dog freedom of choice, even if just for a few moments will establish you as a good, fair and competent leader in the dog's mind. He needs to trust you without doubt, and be willing to spend his entire life under your command.

To the dog, you are everything. You are the world, the sun and the stars. You owe it the the living, breathing, thinking and feeling being who is devoted to you to be the best leader possible. Taking time to establish the bond, and knowing when to let go will make the time you have together something to cherish. Their time with us is short. Make the best of it for both of you.