It is essential to be able to control your dog! Control is vital for protection as well as discipline. Following is one method, which is easy to do, non-frightening and acceptable by most breeds.

• Step I - Fit the dog with a comfortable, leather or nylon buckle collar. The width of the collar should be such that it does not interfere with normal head and neck movement. Buckle it just tight enough so it does not slip over the dog's head, but loose enough so you can get two fingers between the collar and dog's neck. Secure or cut off any extra length to prevent chewing.
• Step II - Put the collar on the dog and let him wear it until he becomes accustomed to and can ignore it. Don't be surprised or upset if the dog is annoyed at first. He may try to scratch at it with one leg. Either ignore this behavior or distract him with a toy. He will quickly forget it is there. Do not leave the dog unattended during this break in period. Dogs unaccustomed to collars can easily become hung up on fencing, their own feet etc.
• Step III - When the Dog has accepted the collar, attach the leash to it and let the dog go where he wants to, letting the leash trail behind him for 5 or 10 minutes. Do not hold onto the leash, but do stay close so the leash doesn't get tangled and your dog doesn't start chewing. Repeat this step 2-3 times a day until your dog becomes used to the leash being there.
• Step IV - When the dog is no longer concerned with the trailing leash, pick up the hand loop and with the dog on the leash, go where he wants to go for 5 or 10 minutes. Do not restrict his movements except to untangle him if necessary. Repeat 2-3 times daily until the dog calmly accepts the leash with you on the other end.
• Step V - When the dog is no longer concerned about being on the leash with you, gently direct him to go where you decide, encouraging him if he is reluctant and verbally praising him when he goes with you. Walk the dog with you in this manner for 5 to 10 minutes. Repeat this step 2-3 times a day until the dog calmly accepts going in your direction. Don't insist that he stay at your side (heel is another class), but encourage him to stay close enough to keep some slack in the leash. When he does pull, give a few quick jerks, followed by praise.

Remember - patience, consistency repetition is the key to all successful training.

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