When I’m out and about I find the interactions between dogs and their people really fascinating. How many dog owners are really connected to their dogs? How many dogs are really aware of their person?

When I see dogs on tight leashes, I typically notice the dogs interacting with everything and everyone that is NOT their person. They are straining to get to a smell, or a stranger, or another dog or wildlife. They are tuned out and turned up! They are ready to party and they don’t care who gets in their way. Their person is simply a weight bearing impediment; an obstacle rather than a partner. They are wild eyed, panting excessively with tight drawn mouths, staring hard at things around them. They are over-aroused (excited) and about to burst.

When I see a dog in that state, I imagine what would happen if the leash broke, the harness slipped, or the flexi wouldn’t retract. What do you imagine?

Now, let’s observe the dogs that walk on a loose leash next to their human. They often ‘check in’ by looking up and making eye contact. They smile, with a loose lolling tongue. They engage with their human. They tune out distractions. They don’t bark and lunge. They mind their business and stay connected. Their body language is generally relaxed.

What if the harness slips? What if the collar breaks? What do you imagine?

Leash training is so much more than a fancy parlor trick. It creates a state of mind, a practice of connection between the dog and owner. It cements a relationship of mutual respect and understanding that they are moving TOGETHER. It’s a symbol of FAMILY. Dogs enjoy walks because it simulates a territorial patrol or hunt with the pack. Are you a part of the pack, or would your dog leave you in the dust?

Dog Dynamix teaches dogs how to walk nicely on a leash because it helps solve behavioral problems such as lunging and barking at other dogs or people, pulling that can lead to the dog owner falling and becoming injured, and it helps prevent the owner from losing the dog should their equipment fail. It also helps create a calmer state of mind, and allows the dog to think rather than just react. Our board and train, day train, and in-home training options all cover this critical life skill. If you are in Arvada, Denver, Wheat Ridge, or otherwise nearby, let us help you and your dog go from sled-dog to good citizen.