[Babs89]

I was hoping to get some responses to my latest posting. This summer when I go to the states I will look into the Gentle Leader. Any problem with switching from the pinch collar to that? This sweet Kangal dog is loving walking with me and looks to me for direction. He's so well behaved--it's such a great feeling to have come this far with him. He is so lucky to have me walk him otherwise his life would be quite grim on his short chain. Just some unknowns for me since he will get huge and not sure about behaviors with females around. Could you answer my questions from my posting on 4-29-07 please? A friend suggested the book "The Dog Listener". Do you have any knowledge of her techniques? I want to improve my knowledge and have even more success with him. Thanks!

[Curbside Prophet]

Understanding what your dog is communicating, especially in public is important...Calming Signals Community. Try to use some of these techniques to diffuse the excitability...although if your dog isn't neutered and dogs in heat are running around, I'm not sure if there's much you can do to prevent internal motivations from taking over.

There shouldn't be any problems switching between tools so long as you understand how to use them and to take it slow. Some dogs adjust pretty quickly, some don't, and for some it may not be good or necessary. You just need to assess the situation as you go, and be patient.

[zenproductions]

I've been told that walking is a treat so if the dog starts pulling the walking stops. Stop and cross your arms, don't move. After, or if, the dog stops pulling tell him to sit and then praise the dog. Continue on your walk. Once he pulls again, the walk stops. If you keep doing this he will catch on. Oh yeah, have treats handy for a good dog.