Abby Sunshine

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retrievers are like sponges when it comes to learning new things. Teaching Abby Sunshine to walk nicely has been a positive experience. As we can see in this picture, Abby Sunshine is walking nicely with Grandma Dori. In fact, they are able to enjoy the walk!

You can tell something positive is happening here. Gram is smiling! When walking with your dog, it’s important to keep them even with you and not ahead pulling. It’s like what Cesar Millan, the Dog Whisperer, talks about in his books- he says to be a “pack leader” when you are on the walk. If the dog is leading you, they are the pack leader. This makes the dog more distracted and anxious. Dogs are more comfortable being a part of the pack, so give them that security!

Abby has chosen to stop. While walking, the dog really ought to be in a non-distracted zone, and should not be making the decisions of when to stop and sniff! That’s your decision as the leader.

Notice how Grandma Dori got Abby back on track?

What a great day for a walk! Have you been out walking today? Have you been practicing walking your dog? Walks can be relaxing and feel great! There’s no reason for your dog yank your arm forward! Be a pack leader and show how pleasant a good walk can feel! Your dog will be appreciative of your leadership!

How about the walking quiz from yesterday, did you take it?