Today we meet Willie, an 11-month-old English Setter who is a spirited, hyperactive boy. My goal for Willie is to encourage him to willingly follow me ONE STEP while using TWHW Calming Cord™ custom-fit slip harness and leash. I am looking for my FIRST “thank you” in this session.
Even though this session doesn’t include the off leash attention training – you’ll notice the immediate calming effect of TWHW Calming Cord™ slip harness has on Willie’s energy and behavior. My inspiration for this simple training device came from an inspiring book I read in 2005, Animals in Translation, by Dr. Temple Grandin, PhD.
Dr. Grandin is an autistic animal behaviorist. In her book she states:
“When core pressure is applied to humans and animals it provides a calming sensation. That’s one of the reasons that a massage feels so good — it’s the deep pressure. Like the soothing sensation newborns have when they’re swaddled, or scuba divers have when they’re underwater. They like It!”
Watch the almost immediate transformation of Willie when slight steady pressure is applied to his slip harness. You can do this with your dog too! Follow my training tips below to see how effective and easy it is to use TWHW Calming Cord™ Slip Harness.
I begin with numerous brief attention and follow me training sessions—remember, the basis for all desired behaviors is getting your dog to honor you. Walking your dog requires that same acknowledgment!
Take one or two steps to see if your dog will follow. If he does, click and reward. Repeat this a few times. Then, begin to walk a little further, stop and go the other way, and walk again. Click and reward as your dog follows your lead. When you want your dog to change direction or to stop completely using “wait,” exert slight pressure so the harness snugs just a bit. The gentle pressure will encourage your dog to stop; if he does, click and reward. Then continue on with your walk, increasing the speed and distance to offer variability in your training routine.
Achieve controlled walking with your dog by practicing these tips and learn to love your daily strolls with your furry friend!
With a bit of patience and repetition, you will see harness and leash training results rather quickly. Don’t forget some positive words of encouragement to go along with the treats—let your dog know he is doing great and offer a “thank you”!
