Doggy Dan Podcast Show

When dog owners come to me for help on how to stop leash pulling, I feel for them, especially when I hear the frustration in their voices. It's understandable why having a dog pulling the leash can be such a pain! If all you want is to enjoy a quiet, peaceful walk with your dog, the constant struggle for control can be exhausting. And most of the time, the leash pulling happens at the start of the walk, making you wonder, "Is going out for a walk even worth it?" Why do dogs do this? Why is there even a power struggle? And should you persist? In this blog, I will talk about my biggest theory of why dogs pull the leash at the start of every walk… and what you can do to change it. Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways: Understand the Instincts: Dogs pull on the leash due to instincts derived from their wolf ancestors, seeing walks as a time for hunting and leading. They will naturally take the Alpha role if they don't sense a leader, hence the pulling. Be the Alpha Leader: To stop leash pulling, you must establish yourself as the leader in all aspects of your dog's life, not just during walks. This means setting boundaries, giving consistent consequences for pulling, and showing calm, assertive energy. Prepare and React Appropriately: How you start the walk sets the tone. Go out first, decide when to walk, and be ready with calm responses to pulling, like pauses or changing direction. Letting your dog lead or not giving consequences encourages pulling. Stop Leash Pulling: Understanding Why Dogs Pull the Leash Right Before You Start Your Walk You walk to the door; your is already pulling on the leash. You step outside down the stairs, and your dog pulls and pulls as if telling you to "Hurry up!" Your time outdoors is all about having to regain control of the leash. If you've experienced the things I mentioned above, you get how challenging it is to have a dog who wants to take charge of the walk from start to finish. But why do dogs pull the leash at the start of every walk? Let me answer that using dog psychology. You see, our dogs have the DNA of a wolf — 99.98%, to be exact. Why is this significant? Because how your dog acts can be connected to how wolves act in the wild. For the wolves, everything is about survival. When they head outdoors, a walk is not just a walk; it's all about hunting for food. The most interesting thing about wolves is they don't push through with their walk until the Alpha — the pack leader — steps in to lead the way, signals "Let's go!" and goes on to make all the big decisions. Even though our dogs have become more domesticated than their ancestors, they still think like wolves. Someone has to lead, someone has to decide, someone has to be followed, someone has to call the BIG shots. FACT: If your dog doesn't feel like an Alpha is in charge, they will take over. Why? Because dogs, by nature, will always look for the leader. If that isn't filled, they immediately have to assume the role. It’s hardwired into the DNA. And leaders lead…thus, your dog is out front and there is endless leash pulling, especially at the start of every walk. Have you ever observed your dog becoming more in tune whenever the walk happens? They're gearing up to make the big decisions! So… what can you do? To Stop Leash Pulling, You Have to Know That Control Matters to Dogs Control is a powerful concept in dog psychology! Why? Because your dog knows control is essential for survival. The Alpha is their protector! The Alpha tells them how to survive the wild and find food. Your dog pulling the leash shows they have taken the role of the Alpha. Their pulling sends the message, "I'm making the big decisions now. I will tell you what to do!" So when your dog pulls the lead, they aren't deliberately disobeying you or getting on your nerves. They pull the lead because they feel they're the pack leader, and they need to make every crucial decision to make the walk successful because that's what pack leaders do. 5 Things You Can Do To Stop The Dog From Pulling the Leash The biggest solution to stop leash pulling is to actually show your dog they can pass on the hat of leadership to you. Here are some ways you can do it. #1: Be the Leader in Everything Just as the Alpha wolf leads the pack, you need to establish yourself as the leader of your pack. I want to be very clear: to stop leash pulling, you need to be the leader of EVERYTHING, and not just of walking outdoors. Some dog owners assume they only need to show their authority and leadership during the walk, and what happens before or after the walk doesn't matter. I 100% encourage you to take charge of everything, from the walk to the feeding to giving affection and attention. Becoming the leader in your dog's eyes requires an all-round approach, and that's why I made my online dog training program, The Dog Calming Code™️. This dog training program is dedicated to helping you become an all-round leader in your dog's eyes by guiding you on how to feed dogs, give attention, respond to calls for danger, and how walks should be done. So when you need to go outdoors, your dog already knows who to listen to! #2: Set Boundaries and Consequences When it comes to walking, I recommend these simple options if you're looking for a way to incorporate discipline during your time outdoors. Consequence #1: The Pause Do the pause if your dog starts pulling the leash. This consequence is your way of saying "Hey, we won't continue walking if you keep on pulling." Wait 2-5 minutes and see if your dog stops the pulling the lead. Consequence #2: The 180 If pulling, aggression, or rowdiness doesn't stop after a couple of pauses, turn the other way around and abandon the walk. I know this could be heartbreaking, especially when your dog has been looking forward to time outdoors. However, doing the 180 can help your dog understand that ultimately, YOU are the decision maker, the one in charge, and they should be listening to you. Your dog will eventually get it, and will follow habits you expect them to do. #3: Know What to Do Before Stepping Out of the House This one is crucial because how you walk out of the house predicts how your walk will go. Even if you've already showed you're the leader, one power move from your dog can change the dynamics. What do I mean by this? I mentioned earlier that dogs are all about control. Your dog is smart and will subtly challenge your leadership before the walk. Some dogs will attempt to jump through the door before you do as if to say "Ha! I lead now!" Sometimes, dogs will attempt to take control by tugging at you, or handing you the leash to tell you "Hey, it's time for my walk!" In both circumstances, if you give in to your dog, you WILL lose control. So before stepping out of the house, here are three things I want you to remember: Tip #1: You Go First You need to be the CEO of the walk every. single. time. This concept means if your dog attempts to go in front of you, you calmly lead them back to your side to walk WITH you. Don't let your dog have any semblance of control. Tip #2: You Decide When To Go for a Walk I talk more about this in my blog about the Doggy Dan Rule #5: How to Walk Your Dogs. The main principle: the go signal comes from you and not from your dog. Sure, your dog will attempt to convince you to bring them outside whenever they want. This could be tempting, especially when they can't hide their eagerness. But stay strong, furmom and furdad. Ignore the request for a few minutes then call your dog. Doing this establishes that you — not them — decide when the walk should happen. Tip #3: You Decide If A Walk Should Actually Happen Keep an eye on your dog's behavior to see if you should push through with the walk. Some factors that indicate you should not push through include: a high energy that doesn't go down extreme aggression that could harm others a rowdy behavior that doesn't respond to commands persistent leash pulling even after you reprimand them If you see these factors in your dogs, don't hesitate to call a rain check on your walk. #4: Stay Calm Your dog can sense your emotions, so if you're tense or frustrated, they'll pick up on that and may become more difficult to manage. Keep your cool, even when they're testing your patience. A calm demeanor reinforces your role as the leader. 4 Things You Should Not Do If You Want to Stop Leash Pulling #1: Get Angry With Your Dogs Yelling or getting frustrated only escalates the situation. For your dog, the one who doesn't easily flinch or fold wins and takes the leadership hat. But what do you do when the constant leash pulling becomes too much for you? I want you to remember this: give calm, consistent consequences. A consequence given with calmness can teach your dog what they need to do more than shouting or using force can. When you're angry, your dog will more likely become stressed, making it hard for them to really understand you. #2: Giving Up and Letting Your Dog Have Their Way Before you continue reading, I want you to know I completely understand your frustrations. I've had conversations with dog owners where I asked them "What happens during the walk?" A lot of them said "Well, the leash pulling becomes too much, we just let them lead the way. We figured it was better than abandoning the walk altogether." Definitely a big misconception! If you are a dog owner who thinks giving in to your dog will make training easier along the way, I'm here to tell you it won't. When you let the dog control the walk, you're also giving them control over everything. Dog barks and snaps at everyone and everything? It's because they're in control. Dog doesn't respond when you call? Why should they listen to you if they're in control? Dog runs far from you even if you command them to stop? Again, you're not in charge. If you give dogs control, everything will be on THEIR terms, not yours. #3: Not Giving Consequences If there's no consequence for bad behavior, there's no reason for your dog to stop. Even though our dogs can be prone to showing headstrong tendencies, they are quick learners and learn through consequences. Giving them consequences helps them understand what they should and should not do. It's the best way to build your dog's best walking habits. #4: Letting Your Dog Make the Decisions You're the leader, not your dog. Allowing them to decide the pace, direction, or when the walk ends undermines your role and encourages leash pulling. Show them you're the Alpha by letting them know "Hey, you can chill. I make the big decisions here." And stick with it. Stop Leash Pulling By Being the Strong, Smart, Confident, and Capable Alpha. The Dog Calming Code Will Help You! The entire concept of dog leadership includes a lot of concepts, and it's easy to fall into the cracks when you're working to become a true leader in your dog's eyes. I created The Dog Calming Code for dog owners who really want to set the leadership right. The Dog Calming Code discusses the Five Golden Rules of dog leadership; five essential concepts that — when done right — will cement your place as the Alpha your dogs WILL trust. Because when you're the Alpha, you won't only be able to stop leash pulling; you can always enjoy a peaceful, calm, successful walk. ~ Doggy Dan 😄

Seeing dog owners letting their dogs run wild when the car door opens is quite a familiar scene. It’s adorable at face value… but it’s a tricky if you want to have calm walks with dogs. “Doggy Dan, do you mean I also have to keep an eye on how my dogs exit the car so I can have peace while I walk outdoors with them?” Yes, you’re right. All your problems with leash pulling, aggression, overexcitement, and yes, even protectiveness will be reduced by simply ensuring you take control WAY BEFORE your dog steps out of the car. Key Takeaways: Control Starts with the Car Exit: The way dogs exit the car sets the tone for the walk. Controlling this aspect ensures a more manageable and enjoyable outdoor experience. Calmness is Key: Encouraging calm behavior from the start, such as opening the car door calmly and giving clear commands, can significantly influence your dog's energy and responsiveness during the walk. Establishing Leadership: Teaching dogs to exit cars calmly reinforces the idea that you are in control. This understanding helps in reducing undesirable behaviors like leash pulling and overexcitement, leading to more peaceful and enjoyable walks. LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents A Quick Recap of Doggy Dan Rule #5: How You Can Control the Walk The Way Dogs Exit Cars Influences How Your Walks Will Go How to Help Dogs Exit Calmly What Happens When You Help Your Dogs Calmly Exit Cars Learn More About How You Can Take Charge of Your Dog's Walks with the Dog Calming Code   A Quick Recap of Doggy Dan Rule #5: How You Can Control the Walk In my previous blog about the Doggy Dan Golden Rule #5, I discussed how you can truly gain control of the walk. In the same blog, I mentioned three pillars for a successful walking experience: #1: You control the walk and the energy. #2: You set the rules on what is acceptable and what is not. #3: Your dog has to know that it’s you who calls the shots. Using this Golden Rule as a guide, letting your overexcited dog run out of the car like a sprinter immediately strikes out your chances of becoming in control of the walk. Read on to learn more about why the way dogs exit cars can make or break your outdoor walks. DOG CALMING CODE: THE PROGRAM THAT HELPS YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES The Way Dogs Exit Cars Influences How Your Walks Will Go If your dog sprints out the moment you open your door, they will be hard to control throughout your time outdoors. You see, the one who controls the walk matters to dogs.   If you control the walk, your dog will listen. If you let them run the show, they'll do things on their terms. Now, most dog owners don't make anything big out of the way your dog eject themselves out of cars. But I'm here to tell you that how they leave the car matters in the grand scheme of your dog's time outside. Let me give you an analogy… When I was younger, my parents brought us to exciting trips. My siblings and I would run out of the car, so excited to just be out there. That often gave my parents a hard time because calling us back was impossible once we were out. They needed our help, but we shut them off. My parents learned some hard lessons from those experiences. The next time we went on a trip, they made sure to talk to us before we headed out. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE "You help out first before you play," mom and dad would say. It was easier for us to follow their orders since they set the instructions. And if they did ask us to do something, we immediately listened. We knew what we had to do. We knew what was expected of us. It's pretty much the same with our dogs! If you've ever gone outdoors with your dog, you’ve probably experienced dealing with a hyperactive dog that just doesn't listen no matter how many times you call! They pull the leash no matter how hard you pull back. They also get snappy with almost every dog they meet, making socialization really hard. How to Help Dogs Exit Calmly So, how do you execute this simple hack for a calmer, more relaxed time with your dog outdoors? Really, really, really be the CEO of the walk, and the boss of every step! Here are some ways you can follow below: #1: Open the Door Calmly The operative word here is calm. It's like dog training's prime rule: when you're calm, your dogs are calm, too. You can encourage your dogs to also be in a calm mood by not being agitated, anxious, or restless yourself. Try not to be jittery or preoccupied before opening the car door. Don't raise your voice or get angry when you command them to be still. I recommend doing some breathing exercises and calming yourself before you open the car door; this helps dogs start off with a calm energy, too! LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOG CALMING CODE, THE PROGRAM TRUSTED BY 88,000 DOG OWNERS! #2: Give Clear Commands Be firm with your commands. Say "stay" if you want them to stay and "sit" if you want them to be still. Make sure your dogs understand these commands way before you use them on your walk. #3: Use a Leash if Necessary You can use a leash if your dogs need extra help calming down. I even use a leash to my dogs if they're too excited to calm down. Just attach a leash onto your dog to help them ready for their walk… the calm way. #4: Give the Go Signal This is the most important part. The outdoors has many distractions: leaves, flying birds, kids playing in the park, and other dogs. Your dog — especially when they're already too distracted — will jump so fast you won't have time to react… or even chase them! They sprinted even without your signal. You've already lost control. They've already shut you out. This is why the go signal for your dogs to run free SHOULD COME FROM YOU. Your dogs must understand that everything — walks included — happens on your own terms. (Why does doing things on your own terms matter in dog training? I talk about it here.) What Happens When You Help Your Dogs Calmly Exit Cars Dogs Listen to You More You know that moment when your dog seems to tune into your every word? That's what happens when they learn to exit calmly. When you don't allow them to run away from you without your command, they understand the language of patience and respect. When you're in control, your dog doesn't just hear you; they listen. They become more attentive and more tuned into your cues. Recall training will work. Leash training will work. Even helping your dog relax will work! All because you don't let your dog overstep you as their leader. HOW TO WIN THE WALK WITH THE DOGGY DAN DOG CALMING CODE Their Energy Levels Are Retained to an Adequate Number We've all seen it—the zoomies, the endless circles around the lawn. However, when dogs learn the art of calm exiting, their energy levels balance out. They aren't bubbling pots of hyperactivity waiting to spill over. Instead, they maintain a steady, manageable energy level. Their energy stays in the level 2 or 3. Now, They're still the playful, spirited companions we adore, just without the chaotic overdrive. They Recognize Boundaries When dogs understand how to exit calmly, they also understand the invisible lines we draw in our lives. These boundaries could be anything from not rushing out the door to waiting patiently for their food. They learn that not everything is a free-for-all. This recognition is crucial. It's not about limiting their freedom; it's about teaching them respect and safety, ensuring they know where they can and cannot go, what is theirs to explore, and what is off-limits.   They Know They Are Not in Control A dog that understands calm exiting also understands they're not the one calling the shots. This understanding significantly reduces tendencies like aggression, overprotectiveness, or leash pulling. They realize that you're the leader, and with this realization, comes a sense of security and peace for them. They don't feel the need to be overly protective or assertive because they trust in your guidance. It's a beautiful shift from chaos to harmony, from uncertainty to trust. LEARN MORE ABOUT GOLDEN RULE NUMBER FIVE WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE It Creates Better Walking Habits The great thing about dogs is they're fast learners. Once habits are formed, our dogs will stick to them. Sure, you're going to experience frustrating, really challenging walks at first. But stick with the essentials — including teaching dogs to exit cars calmly — and your dog will catch on quickly! Learn More About How You Can Take Charge of Your Dog's Walks with the Dog Calming Code A dog who knows how to be calm during a walk is a dog who understands these: a. They're not in charge. b. Their owner is in charge. c. They are expected to behave a certain way during their outdoor walks. And teaching these things to your dog goes beyond simple commands. In my online dog training program, The Dog Calming Code™️, I talk about how you can train dogs to be calm, chill, and happy while enjoying the walk outdoors. Because when you're bonding and spending time with your dog outdoors, there's nothing better than a walk that’s free from the stress that commonly comes with dog walks! Check out the Dog Calming Code here. You got this!   ~ Doggy Dan 😄

If I asked you to write down at least three dog-walking problems, I am sure I’d find leash pulling and misbehaving somewhere on that list. Why? Because almost 80% of those who come to me for help on walking their dog have those issues. And here’s the truth: the solution is fairly simple. The problem starts when dog owners dismiss their dog's little quirks and defiance during walks as nothing serious… until they are. Fortunately, you can flip the switch by doing one simple thing: really making your dog see you’re in charge. How? Read on to learn more. Key Takeaways Leash pulling, barking, and overexcitement during dog walks often stem from a common root: your dog believes it's in charge. If you take charge, your dog will start to relax. Thus, your walks will be more calmer, controlled, smooth. Gentle gestures the walk like calmly pausing to tell your dog they’re not the one in charge can help you retain control from start to finish. LEARN HOW TO WALK YOUR DOG THE RIGHT WAY WITH DOGGY DAN GOLDEN RULE #5! Table of Contents Stop Dog-walking Problems By Taking Control of the Walk Stop Dog-Walking Problems: What Happens When You Take Control of the Walk with Dogs Stop Dog-Walking Problems By Taking Charge… Not Only On Walks. The Dog Calming Code Will Help You! Stop Dog-walking Problems By Taking Control of the Walk The most common cause of dog-walking issues like leash pulling, barking, and getting excited by just about anything is this: your dog thinks they're in control.   It's like the case of "whoever gets in the driver's seat first decides where the trip goes." When the dog sees they have taken over the "driver duties" during the walk, expect them to drive… even if it requires pulling the leash, running without your permission, and chasing everything! Yes, they would do all these things despite your non-stop commands of "No, no, no, no!" So it's absolutely critical that control is in your court… and your dog has to know it! Here are some ways you can do that. #1: Take Control Even Before You Start the Walk If you start exhibiting control after leaving the house, you already lost it. Control is solidified when you're the one to decide when to take the walk. "Doggy Dan, what do you mean by this?" I want you to think of this: who decides to go for a walk? If your dog approached you with a leash in their mouth, prodding you to take them outside, AND YOU AGREED, you have lost control. Let's say your dog goes to you to signal they want to go out; here's what you can do… Ignore them for five minutes, then give the cue that it's time for a walk. You're doing this not to make your dog feel ignored but to establish your role as the ultimate decision-maker in walk-related matters. DOG CALMING CODE: THE PROGRAM THAT HELPS YOU LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOGGY DAN FIVE GOLDEN RULES #2: Your Dog Will Persist in Regaining Control… You Can Gently Remind Them With This Move Dogs understand control. In fact, dogs are so keen in having it because it's programmed in them that control is necessary for survival. So you will see a lot of attempts to take charge of the walk or get in front of you so they can control the walk. (Bonus note: dogs also try to take control of the walk because they are sometimes very protective and feel responsible for protecting you.) The great thing about dogs is they're quick to get the message. Once you do something that tells them "Hey, I got it. I'm in charge," they will adapt. If your dog makes a run for the door to ensure they go first, do this gentle move: calmly block their way with your legs, open the door, and go first. #3: And If Your Dog Insists on Taking Charge of The Walk, Pausing for a While Works If your dog persists, insisting on being the one in charge, stop the steps. Refrain from continuing the walk until they get the message that you decide what happens with your time outdoors. Doing this simple step is like giving your dog an outdoor timeout. Once your dog gets that you stopped because of their rowdy behavior, they will listen to you. Stop for a few minutes until your dog calms down and understands the message. BE THE LEADER IN YOUR DOG’S EYES WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE #4: Wrap Up the Walk When Needed If rowdiness persists, you should be quick on stopping and heading back home. I know this can feel heartbreaking for you and your dog, but it's one of the most powerful ways of telling your dog, "Hey, what you did is not going to make this walk continue. Please remember that." Deciding to end the walk right there and then will establish to your dog that, indeed, you have the final word. LEARN MORE ABOUT THE DOG CALMING CODE, THE PROGRAM TRUSTED BY 88,000 DOG OWNERS! Stop Dog-Walking Problems: What Happens When You Take Control of the Walk with Dogs Chill on the Protective Stuff You know how some dogs get all barky and uppity around other dogs? That's them being overprotective. But guess what? When you take charge of the walk, your dog starts to chill out. They look to you for cues, and pretty soon, they're not so quick to bark or get feisty with other dogs. It's like they're thinking, "My human's got this, no need for me to go all superhero." No More Leash Tug-of-War Ever feel like you're in a tug-of-war match with your dog on walks? You're not alone. A lot of us deal with dogs pulling on the leash. But here's a cool thing – when you're clearly in charge, your dog starts to get it. They follow your lead instead of dragging you around. It turns the walk into something you both can actually enjoy. HOW TO WIN THE WALK WITH THE DOGGY DAN DOG CALMING CODE Relaxed Vibes All Around Ever notice your dog being super tense and on guard when you're out walking? They're in what I like to call 'protector mode'. But when you step up as the leader, it's a game changer. Your dog gets the memo that you're handling the big stuff, so they can kick back and enjoy the walk. They get to sniff around, see the sights, and just be a happy dog. Making Friends, Not Frenemies Leading the walk also means smoother run-ins with other dogs and their humans. When your dog is behaving and not causing drama, it's way easier to have friendly encounters. No awkward apologies or tense moments. Just good, sociable walks. Building Trust, Like a Boss Consistency is key. When you lead the walk the same way every time, your dog learns to trust your decisions. They feel safer and more secure with you in charge, and that just makes your bond stronger. Walks turn into quality time you both look forward to. Good Manners, Not Just Outside Here's a bonus: dogs that get the hang of your leadership on walks often behave better in other areas too. We're talking calmer at home, nicer to your guests, and listening better in general. It's like they understand you're the leader all the time, not just on walks. LEARN MORE ABOUT GOLDEN RULE NUMBER FIVE WITH THE DOG CALMING CODE Stop Dog-Walking Problems By Taking Charge… Not Only On Walks. The Dog Calming Code Will Help You! Being in charge during the walks is just one of the many facets of being a true blue pack leader dogs respect and listen to. You see, being in control is business #1 for the dogs. And if you don't get this (or how to do this!) you will find yourself dealing with the same issues not just on walking but with almost all the challenges that come with dog ownership. The Dog Calming Code™️ can help you understand what it means to really be a pack leader, and how to take control from your dog who thinks they are in charge. Because when you're a pack leader who knows, your dog will just follow. You can learn about the Dog Calming Code here.   ~ Doggy Dan 😄