Hobbes (aka Conna) is a bit strong on the lead and I was wondering what's the best way to train him out of this. We (gently) pull him back to our side with the same command each time but is there anything else anyone recommends? Are harnesses any good? Raven is a dream on the lead so not had this problem before!

You could try pulling him back and then stopping and making him wait before you start off again. It will probably work in the end, provided he gets fed up of it before you do! Kell and Boss are the same at the start of their walks, and pretty much constantly on the monthly walks, but it's something that doesn't really bother me. You could also try keeping him on a short lead under closer control until he stops pulling.

On the plus side, if you're always kept alert with him pulling on the lead that is much better than a big strong dog who walks on a nice slack lead leading you into a false sense of security before wrenching your arm out of its socket when he or she spots something interesting they want to get after!

Thanks Steve, yes already keeping him on a short lead and you are right, it definitely keeps you on your toes! It's not so bad when there are 2 of us walking them but I feel it more when I'm on my own with both dogs (although we are trying to have 2 of us there as much as possible, at least until he settles down). It is more noticeable for the first 5 mins or so and when we' pass other dogs he gets a bit excitable. Hopefully we'll see an improvement soon, it is still early days :)

Hi Wendy,



Get a Halti, they are the complete answer to pulling on the lead. Marvelous things.

Jock pulls like a train on the lead, but only when he can smell the sea! When we walk inland, he's really quite well behaved, apart from diving after 'local' perfume like dead things and rabbit or fox poo.
He's MUCH better than he used to be, as he's got used to the idea that walks are a regular treat, and come complete with a pocket full of biscuits to reward him when he's a good boy.
Hobbes may just be over-enthusiastic at the moment and will calm down of his own accord, but, as John says, a Halti might help in the meantime if you can get him to take to it.

A halti worked wonders with our boy Ace. He took to it no problem, I think because the racing dogs are so used to wearing muzzles.

However, Jade is a nightmare and will not put up with a halti at all but then she is a lurcher and so never raced.

Good luck with it - keep at it - you will get there eventually.

Wendy i got willow on a harness great things i found better than halti got better control xxx

Thanks everyone. He is slowly getting better but it's good to have these tips just in case