For more help, check out our playlist for Loose Leash Walking: th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy1mGMfdVKXq_hiJ27Ej1shW.html And we also have a playlist to help reactive or aggressive dogs: th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy0Tbd6ZybIXgJk3mtpBLLk7.html
How am I just now hearing about this person 😭 she seems so knowledgeable she’s taking into account the dogs emotions and the pet parents too with all the advice
@@slewfoot6608so if you adopt a kid, you aren’t their parent?? Parent is what I am to my pets; I feed them, give them love and attention, I raise them, I take care of their health, bathe them, brush their fur and cut their nails, drive them to their Dr’s exams, take them to school.. if that isn’t the description of a parent I don’t know what is.
You're not alone! I've been doing the owner/trainer service dog training.. with an obedience trained dog. I've been following the protocols for service dog training with another TH-camr. However! As an equestrian and trainer of Dressage horses, even I get coached or take clinics with a lot of different professionals! I realized.. that I need that with my dog as well!! I'm so psyched to have found Susan, because she takes into account, "the whole dog"! Not just physical, but the emotional and mental of your partner. Susan is just brilliant!! I've binged watched her videos for hours at a time, taking notes, and, "journaling"!! 😁 ♥️🐾
the more I watched your videos the more I truly, genuinely accept and love your concepts. Your solutions never going to be a quick fix which is much much popular on the Internet yet can't solve problems from the root.
This is higher level learning. I can't believe you are real but I have watched several of your podcasts now and I am stunned at the quality of understanding and your commiittment to dog-person happiness through understanding. Thank you. Raphael NYC
With my dog, Bren, ( a puli) this would be my biggest challenge ever. He came to us with PTSD at 10 months old. Bren is on ALERT every second out the door on our block- looking up and down for anyone coming in any direction, with or without a dog. Though not friendly, He is OK with neighbors and their dogs from a distance and away from the house. When strangers, with or without a dog, walking across the street come by, I have to stop, hold his leash and collar tightly DOWN with one hand and his ear with the other while he hyperventilates and barks (hysterical), jumps and pulls till they go by. I do understand he is trying to protect me. When other dogs break loose, I have to throw myself down on a lawn. On the other hand, at an agility trial, he very well behaved. though NEVER on a loose leash, he is quiet in his crate, walking by my side, jumping off leash in the practice ring. Bren is fine doing rally and agility in classes where he is the only dog in the ring. I will work on" loose leash walking" in the house. I have been training my dogs my whole life- wonderful suggestions to try, Susan! AND videos to watch. Carole
You're right -- I should celebrate how far my pup has come because she doesn't chase cars, bikes, walkers (still a problem with joggers) but wants to chase the Canada geese, deer, turkeys, squirrels, etc. We're working on that!
Great common sense advice thanks. I have a very reactive dog whos history i dont know. He has a sweet nature but gets over excited about everything, barking and lunging at everything and everyone he sees. He is so distracted that i have to keep him on the lead during walks. If i let him free he runs and wont come back until hes ready. His favourite game would be him running, leaving a trail of destruction with me chasing..... Hopefully your advice will help us to avoid the steak throwers
Thank you, Susan! You are brilliant. Some people know something, and Some(you) can really teach and explain succinctly. Watching what you can do with a dog is amazing!
People like simple, straightforward solutions. Maybe that telling them the only way to solve their problems is to transfer their dog's focus from environment to them which is a gradual process is better.
Finally got my 8 month old gsd (after watching perch video) not to launch me off and send us both off to Pluto 😉 still not perfect but definitely progress after one week. Had been trying other training methods for 5 months and was almost in tears. Had dogs before and they all listened so good, but this sweety is high-spirited and high-vigilance. Thank you so much 😘❤️
I’ll be doing the challenge with my deaf bc puppy. She is a quick learner. High hopes for this little one. As usual, I enjoy your TH-cam videos and have told many people to jump in and watch from #1 on. Or just to punch in the search and plug key words. You’re making the lives of people easier for them to communicate and build a relationship with their dog or dogs. Thanks Susan G
Thanks for more great info! My dog and I are improving little by little. Socialization is important but not at expense of practicing negative behaviours. Thanks for encouragement and practical advice on how to start at home then slowly proceed in more distracting environments.
I’ve been doing the challenges and seeing great gains. I thought we weren’t too bad with loose leash walking but our progress had stalled...now I can see the criteria are so much more clear and the progress is amazing.
I am cracking up listening to you. I love your info and the delivery is great. Like walking backwards and needing a spotter, or meeting a steak thrower. Just subscribed to your youtube and podcast. Thanks for great content. I was running out of game ideas. These are great!
Thank you. I love your work. No nasty methods that are all too often used. You make training fun and what a great way to build a real relationship with your dog!
You are AWESOME! Your education is so brilliant because you explain things in easy-to-break down segments because I have helped quite a few dogs but my explanations as to 'why' my actions work has been akin to my grandma's (awesome) cooking ie "What's the recipe Gramdma"... On observing her between the recipe and the cooking Grandma added pinches of x,y,z 'at the right time' Interestingly she also had a 'gift' with animals - she grew up tending goats (those 10,000 hours) in the countryside without computers or TV.
I really appreciate this approach. My dog freaks out the second we go outside on the leash making other methods pretty ineffective. Going to give this a go
Funny, just yesterday my daughter played tug with her leash and dig, and my reactive Jack Russell ran over to have a “dicussion”. They were both on a long line. We were the bad guys and I said exactly what you said. “Heads up when you play tug”. Make sure it’s safe. It didn’t go over well.
Lol, hands at 8 and 4! Proven more restful and more effective when performing avoidance maneuvers. According to Texas driver's class. 😁 Sending gratitude and love for this and all the other dog communication lessons!
I a going to starting the Pivot Perch and spin training… then i will do the week off walking challenge. Super excited after listening to this episode, everything falls into place I have a mini EUREKA moment and my GSD appears so much more happier, he loves playing games now. We thank you for these videos and podcasts
This is a fantastic video! And it comes to me at just the right time when I’m ready to advance our leash walking skills!! Thank you. And Win and I are UP FOR THE CHALLENGE!!
I have a new rescue . And he’s not food or toy motivated , doesn’t get excited when you wave the toy to get him excited as she does. and it seems like most of the dogs that she’s working with are those Superintelligence border collies.
Hi @elizabethwollin9046 thank you for rescuing! 💚 We have two playlists to help you bring joy to your rescue dog. The first focuses on rescue dogs specifically - th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy1uFZJTuWdJCjQYmjjOguax.html And the first three videos in our playlist covering food have all the steps for you to build excitement for training treats, and insights on other considerations regarding food - th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy0ylVCv0BiSj27AeIdObb_q.html&si=Zdh9sXutqEN6tkw5 Susan's blog post on how to create a motiving toy is another super resource for you - susangarrettdogagility.com/2018/09/how-to-create-a-motivating-toy/
Game week results. Practiced perch work and pivot in various indoor settings. What I have noticed outside (I accompany her during potty breaks)is my dog’s invisible tether is shorter and she’s choosing to stay at my side rather than (way out) in front. She is starting to check in more and isn’t as easily distracted.
That's all great but how do I go about anything like that if I live in the apartment building in the city where there is a lot of dogs outside, usually without a leash that go to my dog at every walk... I may ask the owner not to let the dog do that, but it does not work as their dogs do not comply... Also a lot of distractions everywhere and we have to go out. It's impossible to wait for the proper engagement in the less disruptive environment.
I am in progress of teaching gsp to no run when scenting, 15' longe, easy-cue, to slow trot. Went to visit sis n dogs brother, environment wins and we both suffer. Short leashed, many circles, no treats accepted except occasional search. When we are born wore down things better. Recently yanked off feet again. Help
really all great explained and also sounds all logical, but I am a 1.84m/6foot tall man and have 2 small shih tzu, how should I do that with them? The have their muzzle not at the height of my hip, as in the video I would have to slide around on my knees all the time. If I do the exercises standing I would have to bend over all the time and that is really exhausting after a few minutes of training. i find all the videos on the internet how to train your dogs really great, but most of the instructions are for people with big dogs I would be very grateful for tips
That was excellent, as many of your podcasts are, heard it in the car and had to see it just to see if I understood it correctly. Thank you for sharing your vast knowledge with the masses!
Thank you for this episode Susan. I have been doing perch work and pivots since your episode came out 3 weeks ago and did not know how to continue the education into leash walking. My dog searches and comes back to the perch facing me and I can lure her around the perch pretty well but I have trouble with naming the sides of me close and side. (BTW: Why are they called close and side?) I have trouble getting her from being across from me to next to me in my reinforcement zone. Your dogs actually lean on you. I am eager to start working on this pivot turn game.
I love this podcast, thank you so much for this generous sharing of knowledge. Question: how do you train a puppy that is no longer interested in treats? Started after he turned six months. Only super high level treats seem to get him going (aka human food) which are salty and probably too rich to use very regularly. Any thoughts most welcome. Thank you!
I have a Golden retriever puppy, Golden Red Magic TOBY (now 10 mos old) and I cannot stop watching Susan Garrett videos (and so many others)...I feel like a sponge and have considering delving in further to become a dog (human, lol) trainer. I have seen the amazing results of bonding a relationship, clicker training to shape behaviors. This video is great, seems like a simple concept until you try it yourself...I watched it again! I love your TH-cams/Podcasts when I am traveling (to dog training, of course) in the car -- great sense of humor (STEAK THROWERS, lol), and after watching the one about you -- I think we are very like-minded. Toby loves to learn (aka steak, chicken, cheese, liver!) -- we practice RECALLS and emergency Halt (down) every day on our off-leash hikes; we are starting Foundation Agility classes and recently purchased the KLIMB -- so much fun (important) stuff everyday. going to check out 4myMerles now ;-) thank you for all your great content
I am absolutely THRILLED to hear you say my dog can tug on her leash!!!! My Stella LOVES to tug on her leash!! She will stop as soon as I tell her 'break' and she never chews the lead, she simply loves to tug. This is such a confidence builder for my girl. She is quite reactive due to her blindness, and so I am working towards getting her to engage even when she is afraid. She has gone from reactive/barking/cowering/fearful to reservedly walking by the scary things of this world, only to break out in a celebratory game of tug the leash once we are past the scary!! Thank you!! This just made my day to know that what I was already doing was ok! (I've questioned this so many times!!)
Great podcast as always and still working on perch work but had to joke if someone is throwing steak, I may go for it and forget my bostiies even getting a chance 🤣🤣🤣. Just saying and always Love all you do ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great series on leash walking! I was working with yoga blocks for pivots but they moved around too much. I'm still haven't found an alternative (just busy), but I really need to get on that so I can keep up with your challenges in real-time!
I have been doing the perch game for a week and my gsd is quite good at it, even if this doesn't seem to reflect on the outside walks yet. Having said that, I haven't been off the walking for the week because he would drive us crazy in the house. However, we did less walk on the leash and more off the leash during this time. I will move forward on these games and hopefully it will eventually transfer to the walks 😊
Okay! One more week! I'm having this problem with M'Ocean, where he has a friend dog he romped (off leash, run around sniffing) with just a couple of times, and now whenever he sees her arrive in our yards, he loses his mind, whine whine whine zone out hysteria. I want to train with the other dogs, but for some reason, although he has trained calmly with her in the past, ever since their play together (she is spayed, M'Ocean is intact) I need 100 yards of space from her for him to be responsive. Yesterday I had my training club members all walk down to the stream while I played search/pivot (on leash) game with him in the field, but then when they came back I had to crate him in the house because he had lost his marbles. He wants to play with her so bad! So I guess maybe when he was whining at the door, I should have just said forget it right there, and gone out with my other dog, but I really didn't want to miss the social opportunity for him. So for this week two, I will make life easier and if he is whiny, forget it, I won't even try with that, I'll put him away and only give him leash games when and where it will be fun for both of us, and if he is complaining that he wants something else, just not even go there with him. Hopefully this too shall pass!
Susan ….. what do I do if my dog does not care for treats … they don’t hold high value for her. Maybe the first or second time I use them for teaching something, it works great. But then by the time I want continue longer, she is no longer interested in the treat. I have tried many things as treats…. Commercially prepared, to even real chicken I have cooked, hot dogs, I have tried it all. What should I try. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I just started watching your videos, so maybe you already have one on this topic, and if so, just tell me the name of it. Thanks again! Maryrenee
Hi Maryrenee, thanks so much for tuning in, we're grateful for you. We've got three videos to help with various aspects of a dog not wanting to take treats with insights to consider. Help For Dogs Refusing Treats: Case Study With Training Plan th-cam.com/video/lSoSuz2hV3g/w-d-xo.html Why Your Treats Aren’t Working for Your Dog th-cam.com/video/xjiaOy_iWyw/w-d-xo.html Avoid This Big Mistake When Feeding Your Dog th-cam.com/video/vENpu_2_y20/w-d-xo.html
Can there help with my dogs confidence (we are traveling and the structure he had has been messaged up he's been anxious and anytime we see a dog or ducks he lunges and whines and barks, he's been around other dogs before but since we've got him we haven't done a good job socializing him and he makes such a scene when he does see an animal) I'm having such a hard time figuring out how to help him
Do you have any videos on motivating your dog to train? I adopted Jackson at 6 months old, and we've done a ton of desensitizing walks around pet friendly stores, which he does great in, but once outside, it's out the window and his nose gets the best of him.. Jackson is 15 months old now, and still a bit nervous of certain people/things where he just freezes. Once were outdoors to train, he loses all motivation to eat take his rewards (treats) hes not really a toy dog. Thanks! All your videos are very helpful.
Thank you so much for all the inputs! A question: would you also reccommend the pivot games for dogs who compete in obedience? I'm afraid it could become confusing since in sport when I turn left the dog has to turn right but going *around* me, so that he's still on my left... gggh, tricky to explain but hope it's clear enough. So: of course in Obi I wouldn't use any verbal signal like pivot and the context is different, still I'm afraid this might add unnecessary confusion... what would you suggest? Thank you! Best, Elena
So will it make the training go backwards if when I walk the pup they don't really get it yet? My 9 month old pup has discovered squirrels. She has great recall, being a herding mix, but the terrier side just wants to chase. She was actually great off leash, but now I'm thinking I did her a disservice by allowing all that freedom with no structure.
@bernadettematos7614 Thanks for reaching out to us! Susan has some great resources for our dogs distractions and leash training which you may find helpful with your 9 month old th-cam.com/video/Z9hXKLCK0Cg/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/FQBtdAoxkFg/w-d-xo.html th-cam.com/video/gPMkBT_GGTs/w-d-xo.html (Julie - DogsThat Team)
Hi Susan, I know you´re always looking for our feedback in regard to what topics we´d like to hear about, and I would be sooo grateful if you could cover your general TICK prevention plans. I live in an area where ticks are rampant during certain seasons, and as a first-time dog owner, I tried a topical flea treatment from an online retailer that didn't quite provide the best results, so I switched to an oral Bravecto medication that lasts 3 months. However, because I have some concerns, I would like to know how you handle ticks! Thanks.
I have a question about your criteria for LLW! When on leash, do you allow them to walk in front of you or behind you as long as they're not pulling? I allow my dog to walk in front with a loose leash, and not have to be at my seam so he can sniff and have a bit of room. He walks faster than I do, and while I expect him to walk at my pace at times, I do allow him to go at his sometimes too. I have not put sniffing on cue. I let him do what he wants most of the time, ask him to leave things or come closer at some points. He is not a puller, but we play a very low pressure game of yo-yo a lot (I obviously didn't introduce this, he does this by himself, I'm not big on this game!). He will hit the end of his line, and put a bit of pressure and then slow down. Sometimes he won't let up the pressure as quickly. Quite often he will want to sniff something that is out of reach of the leash length I give him (normally 6 feet unless I give permission otherwise), and pull a bit harder than normal and not let up the pressure (just keep leaning into it). He doesn't normally respond to a cue (let's go!) or a food lure to disengage. I will often just wait for him to loosen the leash and look back at me and then he's allowed to go, but that gets tedious. Not sure what to do...he's always been allowed to walk in front, so I don't want to change that and have him obliged to be at my seam all the time.
Great games but what I really need is something I can do with my dig at an agility trial to get a f hero focus on me not the environment. Any suggestions?
I subscribed, unsubscribed, and then went whole hog!! I’ve purchased 2 of her training programs and see improvement from both my 2.5 yr old and 5 month old. Susan’s approach of CONSISTENCY, make a big, big difference.
@@janking3355 I’m doing Crate games and home school the dog. I’m starting in my living room. I also take my dogs separately to a remote recreational path with mild distraction.
The perch work is coming along really well with my 2-year-old lab BUT I cannot figure out how to teach her to do the pivot so that we can walk the other way. Little This! Does an amazing job of it but my pup has absolutely not clue. She is very resistant to walking on the right side also but we are working on that. I know you aren’t a fan of luring another way to get her to turn toward me during a pivot?
Make sure your puppy is pivoting freely in a circle in both directions like I show in the "perch" video. Once she is doing that the pivot will be no issue.
I taught my dog search/return. On return, I had him 'down' in front of me. He fetches, comes back and obediently, immediately, and joyfully plops 'down' in front of me. Now... If I try to get him to perch, he plops 'down'. LOL I have tried clicker before plops down, but he's quick. He kinda leaps into place. Not sure how to get him to stay up so he can (eventually) pivot. LOL.
I have 2 major problems with my Border. The 2nd one I have had. My 1st female border was a breeze, mellow all her life. She is 14. My 3 yo Merlin has food aggression towards my other pets. He also attacks my cats and drags them. I've owned rotties and have never had difficulty training any of my animals but I'm at my wits end. Any suggestions?
Oh no, Susan, now I want one or three of those leashes... I had been doing so well despite watching your podcast and being in HS the Dog! I have a question about taking a puppy on a puppy adventure, if they're not good at walking on a leash yet but can be safely on the ground. Do I let them wander while on leash and not worry about it too much?
Hi! Susan did an episode about treats where she shares the one she uses with her dogs. Here's the link for you: th-cam.com/video/xjiaOy_iWyw/w-d-xo.html
There is no wrong answer. It could be the one who needs it the most. It could be all three in a Hot Zone and you call them up individually so all 3 get trained simultaneously or if you have a new puppy it could but the most focus goes there.
Yes I would like to learn more leash games. I have 3 dogs trained to dance canine freestyle and these moves are terrific. Plus they are watching me train my puppy and want their time too. Thank you so much this also helps me maneuver my mobility dog easier in grocery story in tight places.
Funny I see everyone rewarding with treats! My dog will not take a treat from your hand,, She never has she is now 8 months old you have to put the treat down on the floor before she will take it.. makes it hard to train with treats. Any suggestions?
Hi @brenda mackie we've got a couple of videos to help. The first is on treat delivery - th-cam.com/video/pGpat4oB5N4/w-d-xo.html The next is on why treats might not work - th-cam.com/video/xjiaOy_iWyw/w-d-xo.html It might also be an idea to look at your permissions, so here's a great video on that topic - th-cam.com/video/0C8yJcmo3h4/w-d-xo.html
Hi Susan, can you explain the purpose of touching the treat to your seam before giving it to your pup? Is there a video somewhere that focuses on the reinforcement zone? Thanks!
@@DogsThat Thanks so much for the reply! I’ve already watched that clip several times actually (along with many many of your videos!) I understand that we need to work to change our reinforcement zone to the side rather than the front. I just wondered if there were specific games or activities that we could practice in order to do that. At this point I’ve just been walking around the back yard and if my pup comes anywhere close to my side I put a treat on my seam. If she comes right into the reinforcement zone I give her the treat. Are there any other activities I could try?
Hi Tina, if you expand the description here, there's a list of resources to help. We'll put them below for you. Perch work is great, and it's in the list to help. Podcast Episode 74: Yes, Susan Garrett’s Dogs Sniff On Walks - dogsthat.com/podcast/74/ TH-cam Video: Susan Garrett’s Perch Work Dog Tricks (Pivots and Spins) - th-cam.com/video/O6sj6fTJnFc/w-d-xo.html Podcast Episode 73: Why Your Dog Is Still Pulling on Leash and How To Fix It - dogsthat.com/podcast/73/ Podcast Episode 53: Stop Your Dog Pulling on Leash and Start Walking Together - dogsthat.com/podcast/53/ Game: Learn How to Play ItsYerChoice (IYC) - recallers.com/iycsummit-join/
I watched the pivot perch and spin training and all my dog wants to do is try to get the food. He goes & searches but he comes back & just focuses on the food.
I did a three month boarding train and it just feels like all of the work that I personally try to put in with virtual training over a year and a half kind of went downhill I really tried my best to work on engagement even if some of what I did was a little bit forced I can see drastic massive improvements subtle improvements After three months boarding train it just feels like my dog isn’t even the same dog he is not engaged with me whatsoever and rewarding him has been a challenge more than before for a dog who is already really anal about when he decides to be motivated by food I think I might’ve fucked my dog up by sending him away instead of just trying to continue working through some issues that to be fair we’re driving me so crazy that I was just looking for answers at the time and I finally got a few but overall everything that I did is undone. This trainer literally didn’t teach me or my dog any of these games in three months and it was a lot of caller grabs
I’m kind of confused. I’m getting a rescue who is reactive to white female dogs. I’m thinking this might help but I’m gonna have to listen to this a few times I think. 🤔
I would never want my dog to lose its position of heel. I can turn left (into my dog) and she will turn with me staying on my left. I don’t understand why you would have them do this?
With Some games (agility!), you need to have your dog on your RIGHT sometimes, so its always good to be able to have dog on either side...and I like her example when you out walking and something coming up on trail (STEAK THROWER!, lol) that you want your dog to have some distance from (handler be in between). Not good wording, but this is a great video anywhoo
Lots of reasons to walk your dog on both sides. One of the biggest is so you don't create an imbalance in your dog's structure from always turning to their right when navigating towards you. Having extra tools and games in your dog's behavioural repertoire can never be viewed as anything but a plus in my books! Additionally, as I mentioned in the video it gives you the ability to quickly put your body between your dog and any distraction as your turn automatically turns your dog's head unlike has you described having your dog pivot only on your left. And finally, Alison is correct, anyone doing sports should get their dog accustomed to walking with their dog on either side.
For more help, check out our playlist for Loose Leash Walking:
th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy1mGMfdVKXq_hiJ27Ej1shW.html
And we also have a playlist to help reactive or aggressive dogs:
th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy0Tbd6ZybIXgJk3mtpBLLk7.html
How am I just now hearing about this person 😭 she seems so knowledgeable she’s taking into account the dogs emotions and the pet parents too with all the advice
@chaotic6zero647 , thank you for being here! 💚
Pet parents? 😂 I never gave birth to any of my animals!
@@slewfoot6608so if you adopt a kid, you aren’t their parent?? Parent is what I am to my pets; I feed them, give them love and attention, I raise them, I take care of their health, bathe them, brush their fur and cut their nails, drive them to their Dr’s exams, take them to school.. if that isn’t the description of a parent I don’t know what is.
I honestly think Susan is a genius ❤
You're not alone! I've been doing the owner/trainer service dog training.. with an obedience trained dog. I've been following the protocols for service dog training with another TH-camr.
However! As an equestrian and trainer of Dressage horses, even I get coached or take clinics with a lot of different professionals!
I realized.. that I need that with my dog as well!!
I'm so psyched to have found Susan, because she takes into account, "the whole dog"! Not just physical, but the emotional and mental of your partner.
Susan is just brilliant!! I've binged watched her videos for hours at a time, taking notes, and, "journaling"!! 😁
♥️🐾
the more I watched your videos the more I truly, genuinely accept and love your concepts. Your solutions never going to be a quick fix which is much much popular on the Internet yet can't solve problems from the root.
Thank you! ❤️
This is higher level learning. I can't believe you are real but I have watched several of your podcasts now and I am stunned at the quality of understanding and your commiittment to dog-person happiness through understanding. Thank you. Raphael NYC
Thank you for your kind words!! We are so happy you found us
Hi @Raphael_NYC thank you for such a lovely note, we're grateful you are watching!
With my dog, Bren, ( a puli) this would be my biggest challenge ever. He came to us with PTSD at 10 months old. Bren is on ALERT every second out the door on our block- looking up and down for anyone coming in any direction, with or without a dog. Though not friendly, He is OK with neighbors and their dogs from a distance and away from the house. When strangers, with or without a dog, walking across the street come by, I have to stop, hold his leash and collar tightly DOWN with one hand and his ear with the other while he hyperventilates and barks (hysterical), jumps and pulls till they go by. I do understand he is trying to protect me. When other dogs break loose, I have to throw myself down on a lawn. On the other hand, at an agility trial, he very well behaved. though NEVER on a loose leash, he is quiet in his crate, walking by my side, jumping off leash in the practice ring. Bren is fine doing rally and agility in classes where he is the only dog in the ring. I will work on" loose leash walking" in the house. I have been training my dogs my whole life- wonderful suggestions to try, Susan! AND videos to watch. Carole
The videos within the video are very helpful to show me what it looks like.
Hey, love your videos, Susan.
Australia does have venomous creatures but no more than America.
Please, big up us Aussies…we 🤩
You're right -- I should celebrate how far my pup has come because she doesn't chase cars, bikes, walkers (still a problem with joggers) but wants to chase the Canada geese, deer, turkeys, squirrels, etc. We're working on that!
Great common sense advice thanks. I have a very reactive dog whos history i dont know. He has a sweet nature but gets over excited about everything, barking and lunging at everything and everyone he sees. He is so distracted that i have to keep him on the lead during walks. If i let him free he runs and wont come back until hes ready. His favourite game would be him running, leaving a trail of destruction with me chasing..... Hopefully your advice will help us to avoid the steak throwers
Thank you, Susan! You are brilliant. Some people know something, and Some(you) can really teach and explain succinctly. Watching what you can do with a dog is amazing!
Thank you Vicky for such a lovely comment ❤️
People like simple, straightforward solutions. Maybe that telling them the only way to solve their problems is to transfer their dog's focus from environment to them which is a gradual process is better.
Finally got my 8 month old gsd (after watching perch video) not to launch me off and send us both off to Pluto 😉 still not perfect but definitely progress after one week. Had been trying other training methods for 5 months and was almost in tears. Had dogs before and they all listened so good, but this sweety is high-spirited and high-vigilance. Thank you so much 😘❤️
Sounds like our 9mo Brittany .. literally just saw the perch video.
I think this is more exhausting than a newborn lol!!!
I have a 4.5 month old gsd and omg I feel you guys 😂😂😂🙈💕
I’ll be doing the challenge with my deaf bc puppy. She is a quick learner. High hopes for this little one. As usual, I enjoy your TH-cam videos and have told many people to jump in and watch from #1 on. Or just to punch in the search and plug key words. You’re making the lives of people easier for them to communicate and build a relationship with their dog or dogs. Thanks Susan G
Thank you for the vid. Learning a lot.
Lol! Pee mail has made work in the park impossible. We suddenly have MANY more people in the park with dogs. I think we were their inspiration...
Another fantastic podcast❤
Really enjoyed this
This came at the perfect time because I'm doing heeling exercises with my puppy!
Thank you❤
I love your energy and great insight into helping dog trainers (such as myself) and helping dogs and everyone else!! Thank you!! Great job Susan!
Thank you
I love your bag of information
New Games!!!!! YAY!!! you covered a lot. Thank you!
Absolutely amazing thank you so very very much can’t wait for the next tutorial. Xxx
Thanks for more great info! My dog and I are improving little by little. Socialization is important but not at expense of practicing negative behaviours. Thanks for encouragement and practical advice on how to start at home then slowly proceed in more distracting environments.
I’ve been doing the challenges and seeing great gains. I thought we weren’t too bad with loose leash walking but our progress had stalled...now I can see the criteria are so much more clear and the progress is amazing.
I am cracking up listening to you. I love your info and the delivery is great. Like walking backwards and needing a spotter, or meeting a steak thrower. Just subscribed to your youtube and podcast. Thanks for great content. I was running out of game ideas. These are great!
Thank you. I love your work. No nasty methods that are all too often used. You make training fun and what a great way to build a real relationship with your dog!
You are AWESOME! Your education is so brilliant because you explain things in easy-to-break down segments because I have helped quite a few dogs but my explanations as to 'why' my actions work has been akin to my grandma's (awesome) cooking ie "What's the recipe Gramdma"... On observing her between the recipe and the cooking Grandma added pinches of x,y,z 'at the right time' Interestingly she also had a 'gift' with animals - she grew up tending goats (those 10,000 hours) in the countryside without computers or TV.
Having a reactive dog when on a leash, I will try those games as I can see them having the desired effect
I really appreciate this approach. My dog freaks out the second we go outside on the leash making other methods pretty ineffective. Going to give this a go
Funny, just yesterday my daughter played tug with her leash and dig, and my reactive Jack Russell ran over to have a “dicussion”. They were both on a long line. We were the bad guys and I said exactly what you said. “Heads up when you play tug”. Make sure it’s safe. It didn’t go over well.
Lol, hands at 8 and 4!
Proven more restful and more effective when performing avoidance maneuvers. According to Texas driver's class. 😁
Sending gratitude and love for this and all the other dog communication lessons!
So fun! Looking forward to training these skills. Army boots!! Ha.
I a going to starting the Pivot Perch and spin training… then i will do the week off walking challenge. Super excited after listening to this episode, everything falls into place I have a mini EUREKA moment and my GSD appears so much more happier, he loves playing games now. We thank you for these videos and podcasts
I have been having a hard time trying to follow my Rally O trainer with the pivots - this video makes so much more sense. Thank you!
This is a fantastic video! And it comes to me at just the right time when I’m ready to advance our leash walking skills!! Thank you. And Win and I are UP FOR THE CHALLENGE!!
Thank you again for such a clear demo and explanation it adds to all the things I've learnt in Recallers brilliantly.
I have a new rescue . And he’s not food or toy motivated , doesn’t get excited when you wave the toy to get him excited as she does. and it seems like most of the dogs that she’s working with are those Superintelligence border collies.
Hi @elizabethwollin9046 thank you for rescuing! 💚 We have two playlists to help you bring joy to your rescue dog. The first focuses on rescue dogs specifically - th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy1uFZJTuWdJCjQYmjjOguax.html
And the first three videos in our playlist covering food have all the steps for you to build excitement for training treats, and insights on other considerations regarding food - th-cam.com/play/PLphRRSxcMHy0ylVCv0BiSj27AeIdObb_q.html&si=Zdh9sXutqEN6tkw5
Susan's blog post on how to create a motiving toy is another super resource for you - susangarrettdogagility.com/2018/09/how-to-create-a-motivating-toy/
Touch the seam!
Game on!
Game week results. Practiced perch work and pivot in various indoor settings. What I have noticed outside (I accompany her during potty breaks)is my dog’s invisible tether is shorter and she’s choosing to stay at my side rather than (way out) in front. She is starting to check in more and isn’t as easily distracted.
I’m not sure if Marley and I are there yet but I am always up for a challenge. Thank you 😊
Probably need to start with getting dogs feet up on the target. After that is easy then start pivot. We used the bases on the baseball field.
love this, thank you!
Thank you so much for sharing so much informations with us! This is soooo generous of you!!❤
Great podcast. I was kind of doing these pivot turns when walking. Susan's tuition has given my actions meaning. Thanks
Loving the game of pivot! Going to be giving this one a go inside this afternoon. I know Quincy is going to love it!
Perfect timing! I was just trying to figure out how to do this yesterday and was feeling pretty awkward--mine definitely didn't look so smooth.
Love your videos! Where can I buy a soft fleece leash for my Yorkshire Terrier? My search has come up zero.
Hi! 4MyMerles makes some great leashes and other lovely dog toys: www.4mymerles.com/product-category/say-yes/
That's all great but how do I go about anything like that if I live in the apartment building in the city where there is a lot of dogs outside, usually without a leash that go to my dog at every walk... I may ask the owner not to let the dog do that, but it does not work as their dogs do not comply... Also a lot of distractions everywhere and we have to go out. It's impossible to wait for the proper engagement in the less disruptive environment.
I am in progress of teaching gsp to no run when scenting, 15' longe, easy-cue, to slow trot. Went to visit sis n dogs brother, environment wins and we both suffer. Short leashed, many circles, no treats accepted except occasional search. When we are born wore down things better. Recently yanked off feet again. Help
really all great explained and also sounds all logical, but I am a 1.84m/6foot tall man and have 2 small shih tzu, how should I do that with them?
The have their muzzle not at the height of my hip, as in the video
I would have to slide around on my knees all the time.
If I do the exercises standing I would have to bend over all the time and that is really exhausting after a few minutes of training.
i find all the videos on the internet how to train your dogs really great, but most of the instructions are for people with big dogs
I would be very grateful for tips
That was excellent, as many of your podcasts are, heard it in the car and had to see it just to see if I understood it correctly. Thank you for sharing your vast knowledge with the masses!
Can I play search outside?
I do inside turns to redirect my big guy it def works!!! But I had it thought of switching sides this way… wow
Thank you for this episode Susan. I have been doing perch work and pivots since your episode came out 3 weeks ago and did not know how to continue the education into leash walking. My dog searches and comes back to the perch facing me and I can lure her around the perch pretty well but I have trouble with naming the sides of me close and side. (BTW: Why are they called close and side?) I have trouble getting her from being across from me to next to me in my reinforcement zone. Your dogs actually lean on you. I am eager to start working on this pivot turn game.
Good work! My girly dog hates right side heeling.
I love this podcast, thank you so much for this generous sharing of knowledge. Question: how do you train a puppy that is no longer interested in treats? Started after he turned six months. Only super high level treats seem to get him going (aka human food) which are salty and probably too rich to use very regularly. Any thoughts most welcome. Thank you!
re tugging on a leash-- I had a wonderful who chewed two leashes. Is that a risk if the dog sees the leash as a toy? thank you for all these videos!!!
I have a Golden retriever puppy, Golden Red Magic TOBY (now 10 mos old) and I cannot stop watching Susan Garrett videos (and so many others)...I feel like a sponge and have considering delving in further to become a dog (human, lol) trainer. I have seen the amazing results of bonding a relationship, clicker training to shape behaviors. This video is great, seems like a simple concept until you try it yourself...I watched it again! I love your TH-cams/Podcasts when I am traveling (to dog training, of course) in the car -- great sense of humor (STEAK THROWERS, lol), and after watching the one about you -- I think we are very like-minded. Toby loves to learn (aka steak, chicken, cheese, liver!) -- we practice RECALLS and emergency Halt (down) every day on our off-leash hikes; we are starting Foundation Agility classes and recently purchased the KLIMB -- so much fun (important) stuff everyday. going to check out 4myMerles now ;-) thank you for all your great content
I am absolutely THRILLED to hear you say my dog can tug on her leash!!!! My Stella LOVES to tug on her leash!! She will stop as soon as I tell her 'break' and she never chews the lead, she simply loves to tug. This is such a confidence builder for my girl. She is quite reactive due to her blindness, and so I am working towards getting her to engage even when she is afraid. She has gone from reactive/barking/cowering/fearful to reservedly walking by the scary things of this world, only to break out in a celebratory game of tug the leash once we are past the scary!! Thank you!! This just made my day to know that what I was already doing was ok! (I've questioned this so many times!!)
They make agility/sport leashes made for tug games, that might be worth checking out!
Iv just found you! I have just rescued a little dog his very reactive and doesn’t no any commands where should I start on ur videos please?
Always touch the seam of your pants, before giving them the treat.💕🤩
Thank you, this is so helpful and well explained. I can’t wait to try this
Great podcast as always and still working on perch work but had to joke if someone is throwing steak, I may go for it and forget my bostiies even getting a chance 🤣🤣🤣. Just saying and always Love all you do ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Great series on leash walking! I was working with yoga blocks for pivots but they moved around too much. I'm still haven't found an alternative (just busy), but I really need to get on that so I can keep up with your challenges in real-time!
I use a rubber feed bowl. It's great because it was inexpensive (Tractor Supply store) and it does not slide.
I use a old big book that I cover with some yoga mat so it is not slippery :) Have a fun!
Thanks for the helpful replies everyone!
I have been doing the perch game for a week and my gsd is quite good at it, even if this doesn't seem to reflect on the outside walks yet. Having said that, I haven't been off the walking for the week because he would drive us crazy in the house. However, we did less walk on the leash and more off the leash during this time. I will move forward on these games and hopefully it will eventually transfer to the walks 😊
What does gsd mean?
Elena, I think it stands for german shepherd dog
Okay! One more week! I'm having this problem with M'Ocean, where he has a friend dog he romped (off leash, run around sniffing) with just a couple of times, and now whenever he sees her arrive in our yards, he loses his mind, whine whine whine zone out hysteria. I want to train with the other dogs, but for some reason, although he has trained calmly with her in the past, ever since their play together (she is spayed, M'Ocean is intact) I need 100 yards of space from her for him to be responsive. Yesterday I had my training club members all walk down to the stream while I played search/pivot (on leash) game with him in the field, but then when they came back I had to crate him in the house because he had lost his marbles. He wants to play with her so bad! So I guess maybe when he was whining at the door, I should have just said forget it right there, and gone out with my other dog, but I really didn't want to miss the social opportunity for him. So for this week two, I will make life easier and if he is whiny, forget it, I won't even try with that, I'll put him away and only give him leash games when and where it will be fun for both of us, and if he is complaining that he wants something else, just not even go there with him. Hopefully this too shall pass!
Susan ….. what do I do if my dog does not care for treats … they don’t hold high value for her. Maybe the first or second time I use them for teaching something, it works great. But then by the time I want continue longer, she is no longer interested in the treat. I have tried many things as treats…. Commercially prepared, to even real chicken I have cooked, hot dogs, I have tried it all. What should I try. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. I just started watching your videos, so maybe you already have one on this topic, and if so, just tell me the name of it. Thanks again! Maryrenee
Hi Maryrenee, thanks so much for tuning in, we're grateful for you. We've got three videos to help with various aspects of a dog not wanting to take treats with insights to consider.
Help For Dogs Refusing Treats: Case Study With Training Plan
th-cam.com/video/lSoSuz2hV3g/w-d-xo.html
Why Your Treats Aren’t Working for Your Dog
th-cam.com/video/xjiaOy_iWyw/w-d-xo.html
Avoid This Big Mistake When Feeding Your Dog
th-cam.com/video/vENpu_2_y20/w-d-xo.html
Hahahahahaha!😂😂😂 My dog is so bendy she folds herself in half without moving her hind legs! It took a week or more to get her to pivot on the perch!
Where do I get that fuzzy leash!!??
Hi Nancy! They're from 4 My Merles: 4mymerles.com/collections/dogs-that-say-yes
@@DogsThat you get them from Ontario, Canada!!! AND in the same town I live in Quinte West - that is crazy!! Never heard of them!!
Can there help with my dogs confidence (we are traveling and the structure he had has been messaged up he's been anxious and anytime we see a dog or ducks he lunges and whines and barks, he's been around other dogs before but since we've got him we haven't done a good job socializing him and he makes such a scene when he does see an animal) I'm having such a hard time figuring out how to help him
Do you have any videos on motivating your dog to train? I adopted Jackson at 6 months old, and we've done a ton of desensitizing walks around pet friendly stores, which he does great in, but once outside, it's out the window and his nose gets the best of him.. Jackson is 15 months old now, and still a bit nervous of certain people/things where he just freezes. Once were outdoors to train, he loses all motivation to eat take his rewards (treats) hes not really a toy dog. Thanks! All your videos are very helpful.
Thank you so much for all the inputs! A question: would you also reccommend the pivot games for dogs who compete in obedience? I'm afraid it could become confusing since in sport when I turn left the dog has to turn right but going *around* me, so that he's still on my left... gggh, tricky to explain but hope it's clear enough. So: of course in Obi I wouldn't use any verbal signal like pivot and the context is different, still I'm afraid this might add unnecessary confusion... what would you suggest? Thank you! Best, Elena
Hi Elena, perch work and pivots is great for obedience, here's our video to help - th-cam.com/video/O6sj6fTJnFc/w-d-xo.html
If dogs enjoy routine, how does not going for my regular morning walk for a week make him feel?
So will it make the training go backwards if when I walk the pup they don't really get it yet? My 9 month old pup has discovered squirrels. She has great recall, being a herding mix, but the terrier side just wants to chase. She was actually great off leash, but now I'm thinking I did her a disservice by allowing all that freedom with no structure.
@bernadettematos7614 Thanks for reaching out to us! Susan has some great resources for our dogs distractions and leash training which you may find helpful with your 9 month old
th-cam.com/video/Z9hXKLCK0Cg/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/FQBtdAoxkFg/w-d-xo.html
th-cam.com/video/gPMkBT_GGTs/w-d-xo.html
(Julie - DogsThat Team)
@ will check them out!
I am let's go
Hi Susan, I know you´re always looking for our feedback in regard to what topics we´d like to hear about, and I would be sooo grateful if you could cover your general TICK prevention plans. I live in an area where ticks are rampant during certain seasons, and as a first-time dog owner, I tried a topical flea treatment from an online retailer that didn't quite provide the best results, so I switched to an oral Bravecto medication that lasts 3 months. However, because I have some concerns, I would like to know how you handle ticks! Thanks.
I have a question about your criteria for LLW! When on leash, do you allow them to walk in front of you or behind you as long as they're not pulling? I allow my dog to walk in front with a loose leash, and not have to be at my seam so he can sniff and have a bit of room. He walks faster than I do, and while I expect him to walk at my pace at times, I do allow him to go at his sometimes too. I have not put sniffing on cue. I let him do what he wants most of the time, ask him to leave things or come closer at some points. He is not a puller, but we play a very low pressure game of yo-yo a lot (I obviously didn't introduce this, he does this by himself, I'm not big on this game!). He will hit the end of his line, and put a bit of pressure and then slow down. Sometimes he won't let up the pressure as quickly. Quite often he will want to sniff something that is out of reach of the leash length I give him (normally 6 feet unless I give permission otherwise), and pull a bit harder than normal and not let up the pressure (just keep leaning into it). He doesn't normally respond to a cue (let's go!) or a food lure to disengage. I will often just wait for him to loosen the leash and look back at me and then he's allowed to go, but that gets tedious. Not sure what to do...he's always been allowed to walk in front, so I don't want to change that and have him obliged to be at my seam all the time.
Great games but what I really need is something I can do with my dig at an agility trial to get a f hero focus on me not the environment. Any suggestions?
I subscribed, unsubscribed, and then went whole hog!! I’ve purchased 2 of her training programs and see improvement from both my 2.5 yr old and 5 month old. Susan’s approach of CONSISTENCY, make a big, big difference.
@@janking3355 I’m doing Crate games and home school the dog. I’m starting in my living room. I also take my dogs separately to a remote recreational path with mild distraction.
The perch work is coming along really well with my 2-year-old lab BUT I cannot figure out how to teach her to do the pivot so that we can walk the other way. Little This! Does an amazing job of it but my pup has absolutely not clue. She is very resistant to walking on the right side also but we are working on that. I know you aren’t a fan of luring another way to get her to turn toward me during a pivot?
Make sure your puppy is pivoting freely in a circle in both directions like I show in the "perch" video. Once she is doing that the pivot will be no issue.
@@RaptorsGirl Ahh, the complete circle from the video. Yes, we aren’t successful at that yet. Thank you! That makes sense!
How to do this with a tiny dog?
Working on Alumni Game Day 5: RZ this week, will see if I can't work in pivot as well! So many games so little time! 🍪🍪🍪🍪🍪
True that! My dog cant get enough.
I taught my dog search/return. On return, I had him 'down' in front of me. He fetches, comes back and obediently, immediately, and joyfully plops 'down' in front of me. Now... If I try to get him to perch, he plops 'down'. LOL I have tried clicker before plops down, but he's quick. He kinda leaps into place. Not sure how to get him to stay up so he can (eventually) pivot. LOL.
Hi Sidney, Susan has a great video about pivots and spins that may help you work through this challenge: th-cam.com/video/O6sj6fTJnFc/w-d-xo.html
I have 2 major problems with my Border. The 2nd one I have had. My 1st female border was a breeze, mellow all her life. She is 14. My 3 yo Merlin has food aggression towards my other pets. He also attacks my cats and drags them. I've owned rotties and have never had difficulty training any of my animals but I'm at my wits end. Any suggestions?
Hi Lynda, we have a podcast video all about resource guarding to help, here's where you can watch: th-cam.com/video/11bkaaX7LXY/w-d-xo.html
Oh no, Susan, now I want one or three of those leashes... I had been doing so well despite watching your podcast and being in HS the Dog!
I have a question about taking a puppy on a puppy adventure, if they're not good at walking on a leash yet but can be safely on the ground. Do I let them wander while on leash and not worry about it too much?
Yes exactly, as long as your expectations are low all puppies need new environments regularly to grow confidence.
@@RaptorsGirl Ok, got it. Thanks for replying and these podcasts!
Hello Susan, we just discovered your YT page and thank you! You are so helpful, what kind of training treats to you recommend?
Hi! Susan did an episode about treats where she shares the one she uses with her dogs. Here's the link for you: th-cam.com/video/xjiaOy_iWyw/w-d-xo.html
@@DogsThat Thank you so much for responding! Checking it out now! Have a great day 😁
I have 3 dogs, where is a good place to start?
There is no wrong answer. It could be the one who needs it the most. It could be all three in a Hot Zone and you call them up individually so all 3 get trained simultaneously or if you have a new puppy it could but the most focus goes there.
Yes I would like to learn more leash games. I have 3 dogs trained to dance canine freestyle and these moves are terrific. Plus they are watching me train my puppy and want their time too. Thank you so much this also helps me maneuver my mobility dog easier in grocery story in tight places.
Funny I see everyone rewarding with treats! My dog will not take a treat from your hand,, She never has she is now 8 months old you have to put the treat down on the floor before she will take it.. makes it hard to train with treats. Any suggestions?
Hi @brenda mackie we've got a couple of videos to help.
The first is on treat delivery - th-cam.com/video/pGpat4oB5N4/w-d-xo.html
The next is on why treats might not work - th-cam.com/video/xjiaOy_iWyw/w-d-xo.html
It might also be an idea to look at your permissions, so here's a great video on that topic - th-cam.com/video/0C8yJcmo3h4/w-d-xo.html
@@DogsThat thank-you
Hi Susan, can you explain the purpose of touching the treat to your seam before giving it to your pup? Is there a video somewhere that focuses on the reinforcement zone? Thanks!
Hi Tina, here's a blog post with video to help:
susangarrettdogagility.com/2020/01/stop-my-dog-pulling-on-leash/
@@DogsThat Thanks so much for the reply! I’ve already watched that clip several times actually (along with many many of your videos!) I understand that we need to work to change our reinforcement zone to the side rather than the front. I just wondered if there were specific games or activities that we could practice in order to do that. At this point I’ve just been walking around the back yard and if my pup comes anywhere close to my side I put a treat on my seam. If she comes right into the reinforcement zone I give her the treat. Are there any other activities I could try?
Hi Tina, if you expand the description here, there's a list of resources to help. We'll put them below for you. Perch work is great, and it's in the list to help.
Podcast Episode 74: Yes, Susan Garrett’s Dogs Sniff On Walks -
dogsthat.com/podcast/74/
TH-cam Video: Susan Garrett’s Perch Work Dog Tricks (Pivots and Spins) -
th-cam.com/video/O6sj6fTJnFc/w-d-xo.html
Podcast Episode 73: Why Your Dog Is Still Pulling on Leash and How To Fix It -
dogsthat.com/podcast/73/
Podcast Episode 53: Stop Your Dog Pulling on Leash and Start Walking Together -
dogsthat.com/podcast/53/
Game: Learn How to Play ItsYerChoice (IYC) -
recallers.com/iycsummit-join/
Counter-Column….March!
Yep had to keep her distracted from skunk within thirty feet, she kept her attention on me.
I watched the pivot perch and spin training and all my dog wants to do is try to get the food. He goes & searches but he comes back & just focuses on the food.
For me it's very hard to follow your game instructions cause of that many mentioning of podcast episode this and that, super confusing
I’m up for this challenge, let you know in a week.
I did a three month boarding train and it just feels like all of the work that I personally try to put in with virtual training over a year and a half kind of went downhill I really tried my best to work on engagement even if some of what I did was a little bit forced I can see drastic massive improvements subtle improvements After three months boarding train it just feels like my dog isn’t even the same dog he is not engaged with me whatsoever and rewarding him has been a challenge more than before for a dog who is already really anal about when he decides to be motivated by food I think I might’ve fucked my dog up by sending him away instead of just trying to continue working through some issues that to be fair we’re driving me so crazy that I was just looking for answers at the time and I finally got a few but overall everything that I did is undone. This trainer literally didn’t teach me or my dog any of these games in three months and it was a lot of caller grabs
Does your dog smile? I saw her on the brick .. A lot of dogs do this!
I’m kind of confused. I’m getting a rescue who is reactive to white female dogs. I’m thinking this might help but I’m gonna have to listen to this a few times I think. 🤔
❤️👍
Touch your seam??? What does this mean?
The seam on the side of your trousers, if you watch Susan's demonstration again, you'll see it clearly. Happy training! 💕
I would never want my dog to lose its position of heel. I can turn left (into my dog) and she will turn with me staying on my left. I don’t understand why you would have them do this?
With Some games (agility!), you need to have your dog on your RIGHT sometimes, so its always good to be able to have dog on either side...and I like her example when you out walking and something coming up on trail (STEAK THROWER!, lol) that you want your dog to have some distance from (handler be in between). Not good wording, but this is a great video anywhoo
Lots of reasons to walk your dog on both sides. One of the biggest is so you don't create an imbalance in your dog's structure from always turning to their right when navigating towards you. Having extra tools and games in your dog's behavioural repertoire can never be viewed as anything but a plus in my books! Additionally, as I mentioned in the video it gives you the ability to quickly put your body between your dog and any distraction as your turn automatically turns your dog's head unlike has you described having your dog pivot only on your left. And finally, Alison is correct, anyone doing sports should get their dog accustomed to walking with their dog on either side.