Why Do Dogs Pull On The Leash?

[@StonnieDennis]

Are you a fan of my training style, but can’t travel to Kentucky to see me in person? No worries! I offer an awesome online dog training course, which includes access to an array of exclusive videos and content, personalized coaching, journaling, and in-depth mentoring and evaluation by yours truly! If you just need some an advice or have a couple questions you need answered, I also offer professional consulting by the hour. Both of these great services can be found here: www.kentuckycanine.com Thank you all for your remarkable support over the years! I cannot express enough how grateful I am for your appreciation and patronage of this channel, my training style, and my kennel. Always remember, it’s a great day for a puppy-sized adventure

[@rtd85]

I am in Norway and its very cool that we could learn from your course all the way over here if we ever decide we are ready to bring a dog into our family. (beyond the wall). As always great video.

[@lowcountrygirl7779]

Yes Sir. Indeed ,it's always a great day for a puppy - sized adventure .Especially with the cool, crisp Autumn days upon us, and already here. Thank you!

[@kenazfehu7176]

He pulls on the leash because he wants to move faster.

[@cliffordbuttle4529]

@@kenazfehu7176 he wants to be in charge

[@dortenielsen8253]

My favourite dog pulls for several reasons 1. Because he wants to get to interesting scents FAST! 2. Because the owners allowed it ever since they got him 3. Because I had no strategy to stop it, as he already was accustom to pull, when I first met him. So my strategy was to train him to walk off leash instead. So we only walk in nature - in the forest, in the deserted gravel pits and at the fiord, never in places with traffic. He is very good at walking off leash. Even now, when he is old and deaf, he keeps holding an eye on me, he reads my body language perfectly, much better than I thought, when he could hear, and he keeps checking in. His built in GPS still works perfectly, so when ever I get lost, he will always guide me the shortest way back to the car. I don’t have to ask him. He can see, when I’m getting confused and insecure. I am pretty sure the sniffing through all the years has contributed to build up the mental maps that give him his perfect overview of the landscape wherever we are. But if I put a leash on him, he inevitably will pull. So I don’t.

[@debbiesmith2207]

Stonnie is a breath of fresh air in this youtube world

[@sg639]

I am a professor of English, and I was startled by the moment when I heard Dennis quote Thoreau to diagnose the sorrow of a dog's life (the "quiet desperation" remark). Walden is a living book, and the fact that this trainer applied it to his work is beautiful. Respect.

[@warbonnett1]

Stonnie is a sage genius.

[@grace4art1]

Love this love Thoreau

[@Alexb_1775]

You might seriously be the best most realistic dog trainer I’ve seen.

[@qgde3rty8uiojh90]

The explanation about dogs' "quiet and desperate lives" is heartbreakingly sad.💔 😢 It's our human responsibility to love our doggos 🐕🐕‍🦺🐩 and give them the lives they deserve to live! 😊❣🥰

[@chancellorism]

Well hallelujah; someone finally said it. Hopefully those people that have dogs as ornaments for their egos can actually be open enough to hear Stonnie’s message.

[@mikelaughlin270]

I have said it before and I will say it again, this is THE BEST dog training channel on the internet. My life and my Lab's life have been incredibly awesome and we have had so many adventures because of everything we have learned from these videos.

[@StonnieDennis]

Thank you!

[@fbryce1ify]

I subscribed due to this comment. first time here

[@mikelaughlin270]

@@fbryce1ify You won't regret it. Stonnie always puts out quality, easy to follow, content that is easy to apply and very effective as long as you put in the time with your dog.

[@dre91xl24]

Same here I apply most of his techniques and with my working line German shepherd

[@notasheep12]

Why do u use a clicker when handing out the treat?

[@annylaurie422]

I seldom have to walk my dog on leash - but when I do, I put him on a long line and let him have 50ft. The criteria is come back when I call, not jump on people and don’t pull on leash. I found Stonnie when I got an Aussie puppy in February and have followed his methods. I now have great 5 month old puppy. We have lots to learn yet and he loves to learn. I think he trusts me because there is not anything I have asked of him he won’t try and then do. I can take him to pubs and after visiting with people and other dogs he just lays down and relaxes. My dream is to have a private dog park just like Stonnies and have yearly memberships. I am not a trainer I just want to have a safe place to walk dogs off leash with like minded people. A place for dogs and humans to explore, swim and just enjoy nature

[@maureenshonn3551]

Great advice Stonnie! Guilty here. Can’t tell you how many times I’ve said ‘’I promise, we’ll go for a long walk tomorrow”, and then get irritated when they’re not the perfect pups. My labbies deserve better. Going to make time, not excuses. Thanks again!

[@StonnieDennis]

Good attitude!

[@sicilyny5375]

Me too..GUILTY! ILL DO BETTER, I PROMISE..😟

[@carolflower8015]

It'll do you the world of good too

[@madeleinemcaveney1061]

Me too. My Lab is short changed and it's all my fault. I will change my selfish ways and allow her to be a happy dog.

[@kenc.9067]

​@@carolflower8015Right! There are days I don't feel like walking my Lab after work because I'm tired or it's cold, but I make myself walk her, because I made a commitment to my dog. Once we're out walking, I'm always glad we went.

[@reneethomson3202]

Thank you for addressing little boxes that some dogs have to stay in all day. And thank you for addressing the electric collars. Much appreciated.

[@menopassini9348]

Agreed My Malinois/GSs never were in a crate. Except for my formerly lame pop that was beaten and abused and returned to her breeder. The breeder kept her in a crate so the other dogs wouldn't attack her. Never would use an E collar know people who got Covid Puppies and had no clue and didn't hired a. trainer so they Zapped them with the E collar.until they became vicious. What does a first time 120 pd middle aged woman doing buying a GS puppy? I seen that woman being dragged by her 100 GS. .The dog is out of control and neurotic from being Zapped and being lectured. But she tells everyone he is very Protective of her instead. Her dog bite half of an ear off of a neighbor's dog.

[@juliecrowe5252]

Agree can't believe so many dogs spend so nany hours locked up in a little cage ,my dog has never seen a cage he needs to be out and about doing things playing meeting people etc gets a bit excited but he's young and full of energy he needs an outlet for once he's bounced about a bit he calms down and settles

[@YSLRD]

Crates are useful for housebreaking puppies. That's pretty much it. And don't get me started on E collars. God forbid.

[@nrahoward]

I think my dog lacks regular walks and is super excited to be outside our yard, therefore he pulls on the leash to explore as much as he can

[@josac9315]

Same here 😅

[@glowindark64]

I walk mine on leash 3 times a day and he still pulls although not if I use the leash correctly

[@mariamuller1314]

same

[@lynnericcio228]

My black Labrador pulls on the leash as he wants to get cracking because there’s so much to see and do and so little time; and he has to make the most of his too brief opportunities to do what he likes doing.

[@beastinblack4055]

Same here but ten minutes later after a game of catch mine settles down fine. Some moments have to walk on leash sometimes gets let off to be a dog. It’s a mutual compromise where we both benefit

[@leecastle1465]

Stonnie I took your advise many months ago about off leash walks in woods etc and then doing a short leash walk with my GS Lexi. She's so worn out she just walks calmly without pulling. I guess at 18 months she's about 75% there on walking nicely on a leash. I try my best at 64, I can't run with her but I can go on great nature walks, we're retired, at home so she has company, I don't like crating dogs. She's not chewed any shoes etc and can be left free in the house if we have to leave her for a couple of hrs. Thank you for all the wonderful puppy training advise, I now have a terrific well behaved dog that comes when called, brilliant with kids and other dogs she knows well. All the best from Epsom, England 🇬🇧 ❤

[@StonnieDennis]

That’s great!

[@debbiesmith2207]

Quite right. Great advice. Im updating my comment now that my Golden Retriever is 12 months old. He is so good and happy largely because im following Stonnies " bum training" he is good on and off leash. Off-leash he runs and plays but frequently checks in with me. I never taught him to do this. It's just a result of constant companionship, picking the right breed and having fun together

[@pintsizestories196]

The same applies to kids in terms of having well-behaved, relaxed behaviour. Great video. Love seeing all the happy dogs.

[@TheBaumcm]

Adults too, for that matter.

[@doglabdogtraining-gus.8873]

I’m a professional dog trainer and i have to say this is some of the best advice you can give as a trainer, thank you.

[@yishihara55527]

You just told the world that you aren't a professional.

[@doglabdogtraining-gus.8873]

Buddy if you can’t be nice , don’t turn on your computer, sounds like you need a hobby or validation or maybe you are just a 13 year old kid, let me talk to your dad please.

[@CheekyChops710]

I believe you’re wrong. Dogs can change In a few sessions of a handler knowing what the problem is and fixing. Dogs can learn something much faster than people give them credit for. I can train and proof a half a dozen obedience behaviors in a week or less maybe 2 sessions a day of 5 min a session with their food being their reward. Using a dogs food ration to train is a great tip

[@doglabdogtraining-gus.8873]

@@CheekyChops710 I think you missed the point, he is referring specifically to loose leash walking, not about training dogs in general, again how fast the dog goes depends on the history of the dog, how good of a shaper you are , and how conducive the environment is. But I would agree with you that dogs are fast learners in most things but loose leash walking like most people train it is very hard to accomplish a good heel.

[@CheekyChops710]

@@doglabdogtraining-gus.8873 a good heel is easy to accomplish.

[@C.Pachovsky]

This is possibly the best content/information on dog training I've ever seen or heard. It's good to place a mirror in front of people and let them have a good look at themselves. Keep on doing what you're doing Stonnie! You are the best dog trainer I know of.

[@StonnieDennis]

Thank you!

[@sofluid]

My Malinois pulls on the leash at the start because she absolutely looks forward to her walks or jogs up the mountains with me. She's got so much energy to burn so I don't fuss over it too much, I simply mix in commands and keep her mentally stimulated in this way to have her slow down occasionally if need be. Once we've walked or jogged some distance and I've really worked her she slows down on her own but is ready to pick it up anytime to match my pace/energy. Training is a lifelong process with all dogs, especially in working lines. She loves to work, so giving my pup her free time to roam the property a few hrs a day and then having her exercise and work with me every evening gives her some structure while bonding and letting her enjoy herself. It's gotten to the point that depending on where we go for a walk or jog she has the routine down to a t, to the point where I don't even really need to say much besides giving praise when she's doing great.

[@thekynologist155]

Stonnie’s is one of the best companion-dog training channel, that focuses on the practical, because it is full of rare wisdom (over quick fix crap!) that comes only from a long life of hard work and loving dogs! Thanks, Stonnie!

[@Mitch_Ryder]

Thanks for the reminder that the only way to success is time and work.

[@daynaandsteve]

I love this. My malinois and my doberman are farm dogs. Running around with me all day as we work. But we still walk those two dogs every single day OFF our property down the road. Its a short walk but they LOVE it. We can't miss a day, they'd remind us. haha They get all their pee mail sniffing in during those walks. Also my doberman still pulls, he's just super excited and so it is what it is. He's so rarely on a leash that it just isn't a big deal. He just wants to quickly get to the next pee mail check. Funnily enough he does the farmers market with me every Saturday and he does NOT pull on the leash there. People come up and greet him and he's so polite and well behaved. Not like at home at all. haha!

[@simonem.3092]

Oh my gosh! That scenario you painted was heart wrenching and reminded me that too many people have dogs that shouldn’t. 😭

[@cubaindy6700]

I just discovered this channel. I have never heard anyone else talk like this guy. I think your understanding of dogs is the best!

[@catherineparkerdouglas4114]

I too just discovered this channel, about a week ago. There are so many things I like about it. I think I'm hooked.

[@ShivaLadiva-sb9nw]

Me 2

[@ShivaLadiva-sb9nw]

For once and for all... What is better a collar or harness? My dog refuses a collar She is 32 kg large LGD Maremma mix... Help

[@ShivaLadiva-sb9nw]

My dog gets tired after the dog park and beach Problem is morning walk

[@ShivaLadiva-sb9nw]

In Europe electrical shock collars are illegal. I hate it

[@MichaelBasedow]

What a great point. Let dogs be dogs and enjoy the life they deserve with you. It’s a total commitment as they are committed to the owner.

[@Rainy78]

God has given you a great gift Stonnie. I thank you for sharing all of your wisdom with us here on your channel. God bless you!

[@StonnieDennis]

Thank you! May God bless your family as well!

[@parijatacharbonneau4090]

Quiet desperation… so true. So many dogs i see at the end of the little leash after a day of being prisoner of their little cage. So sad. Thank you for your lucid insights.

[@GusI727]

My dog pulls on leash because simply, there is something she is interested in getting to. And I love that she’s interested in stuff. I used to be really worried about teaching my dog to heal/ walk on loose leash really nice a pretty. Absolute focus and attention on me. As a novice dog handler that ended up w me getting frustrated and I agitated her on neighborhood walks. I stopped walking her as often and I took her out to an empty field and put a long line on her. I taught her to “follow me” which I think Stonnie uses as his “let’s go” command. Totally changed mine and my dog’s relationship. Her recall is great and she WANTS to follow me around in different environments. She knows that I am a symbol of showing her these safe free spaces rather than an anchor taking he to overly stimulated places. It took about 3 months of practicing this 5-7 days a week for about 20 minutes a session to build her up from pulling on leash to being great off leash with lots of dogs and ppl around (every dog is different and always be mindful of your environment) My dog is a high drive Rottweiler. Sorry for the novel but this is an emotional subject for me. I wish I could take back some methods I used on my girl to force compliance out of her.

[@doristurner1281]

Ditto.

[@liesalllies]

Dogs always forgive our mistakes,we don't deserve them 😭

[@elainelucke]

Thank you so much for what you said about e-collars. Nothing replaces just getting out there & playing & walking & hiking & swimming. I am lucky to have all that handy. My dog is one & we still use a long line for all our trail walks. I do use treats for her recall still. But the environment is mostly her reward. Love your videos!

[@cmax4692]

Really like your approach which puts the dog's well being front-and-center. Thank you.

[@donnageoghan4328]

I stumbled onto these videos and I realized he makes WAY more sense than most dog trainers. I often watched other trainers and they make it seem like the dog learns how to behave in just one session and they are perfect thereafter. That doesn’t happen. Treats just make my dogs look more for what’s in my hand than what I am saying and I would never use e-collars. The only thing that works is exercise,enjoyment, and constant practice. I love seeing a trainer who,shows us the real way to train a dog.

[@mindycrocker]

OMG! stoney you made a great point!!!!! (FYI we LOVE camera man!)

[@scottbelcher6013]

Fantastic Channel. Been watching for a few years. We leave the channel on in the main room when we leave to entertain our two labs. Between the many dogs and the commands, hell they might even learn something. Keep the great content coming.

[@OdysseusMDA]

Haha! Best comment👍🏼

[@TheCvcaelen]

A couple of months ago I started walking our dog (been in a severe accident, I sure wasn't strong enough and stable enough to walk any dog). Before that my son walked our almost 3 year old Chow. When I took the leash, she nearly pulled me down,... After a few attempts I changed the leash for a retractable 5m leash, and that changed the walk completely: those few extra meters of "freedom" she gets make her more calm and at ease. When we are out for a walk she now nows that it is her walk: she can smell all she wants, I am just there to watch over her so that she doesn't eat things lying on the ground, it's my job to make sure our road crossings are safe and I watch out for other dogs or people. Funny thing is that when we meet another dog, male or female, she doesn't care, she just smells and walks on, no extra pulling the leash, no barking, no nothing,... So, our walk is about 1,5km or so, but it sure takes three quarters of an hour :-) At home she has a pretty big garden to walk in, chase pigeons, it's a Chow, so she sleeps most of the day, but when I reach for the walking-shoes, she's very much awake! For me and our dog it's that little bit of extra freedom that stopped her pulling the leash. Wish I found your video sooner, now I had to learn the "hard" way, but you're absolutely correct: we need t sometimes think as a dog to understand what they're doing. Keep up the good work!!!

[@margaretfleming3554]

Please put this man on mainstream television. Fantastic advice and common Sense!

[@michelletaylor7545]

Finally!! Training strategies that make sense. You approach dog training the way I approach classroom teaching. I plan every lesson with the needs and intrinsic nature of my audience foremost in my mind. Most training I’ve seen works against the nature of the dog. Your approach makes perfect sense! Thank you. 🐾

[@jongray4828]

There are a lot of comments on here about this being the best dog training channel on the internet. I think people feel that way when they get the results they’re looking for in whatever behavior they’re are looking to correct. I would love to have the set-up you have in that obstacle course because it would help to slow up my leash reactive dog. I have a 90 lb golden retriever that I can’t walk without a head harness! We’ve been working on leash reactivity for about 3 years now for a couple hours a day, I rollerblade before training sessions with this dog and it still doesn’t slow him down! At this point I’m convinced my dog just likes being in front. We’ve made some improvements but not to my liking so the work continues!

[@nannernose3133]

Adopted my 80lb long coated GSD last year at 3 years old. He's come such a long way! Doesn't pull as much as he did, but it's always because of two distractions: squirrels and barking dogs. Have spent a lot of time and put in miles of walks. He has the occasional bad day, but mostly he's good. He still is a little defiant sometimes and when he has to sit and "leave it" will do it, but look away from me. I've used treats a lot. Not at all food motivated at first Had to use hot dogs for a while to get him to look at me, and at times just got in front of him, held his face, and petted him. We passed a dog with similar challenges a few times at the park today. It was barking and lunging. So proud! He ignored it- mostly because he was very busy sniffing things. Note: I'm old with almost zero strength due to back stuff, and I do use a prong, usually on a loose leash, because otherwise I may not be able to hold him should he encounter one of those little yippee dogs on a retractable leash that's allowed to approach within a couple feet, or a loose dog doing the same. Prey drive is the main cause of pulling, plus not always feeling confident and connected with me.

[@sandrasmith8568]

I just rescued a GSD 1 month ago. Age 3. Lol. And he pulls. So ironic. Have a river walking trail and he lives squirrel. That is the strongest pull and surprise. He's sees before I do. I'm older also and use a training collar with prongs to control. He's getting better but when use regular collar he goes back to pulling. Not giving up.

[@sandrasmith8568]

Oh and the rescue place said he weighs 80 lbs..

[@6Deep6]

Thanks for the reminder. I greatly appreciate the honesty about the matter. You are a genuine great person. Really really good reminder to me how I am failing my dog...

[@jasonjordan2096]

I checked this book kzbin.infoUgkxSw1k29V8f0aNwyGI6qRGYJc3E4Y4Eoxy out at the library - read it cover to cover - and then decided to purchase it, so i can refer to it as needed. This provides additional ways to train in addition to the two obedience classes my sicx month old belgian malinois has already attended. Despite having dogs my whole life, i have been voraiciously reading dog training and psychology books lately given my little "maligator" has a mind of her own (extremely smart but obstinate) , and this one ranks among the best.

[@krs6924]

In answer to the question you asked at 1:35, my dog pulls because he is eager to get to the scents that he’s picking up. He wants to explore, whether on or off leash, he is tracking scents. I’ve taught him the command “walk with me”. When he is off leash, I can say “walk with me” and he will walk abreast of me on my left side. This command does not work when he is on leash. I need help, please. 3y/o male intact Chocolat Labrador. I receive compliments on how well I have trained him. Walking him on leash is the only task I haven’t mastered with him. I use a vest style harness with a 10” training lead/leash. My dog is tall, I’m 5’4”. The vest and training lead combo works well for us.

[@Lux421]

Can we get a behind the scenes video? I’m interested in what the dog’s housing look like. And what your schedule is. And how you select dogs that can come to your facility. I noticed that when they walk in a group, everyone is getting along with each other. But in “the real world” that’s not really how it goes when you put a lot of random dogs together. So I’m curious what the whole process behind it is. Do dogs have to do some sort of “intake” first? I’m just very interested in the whole organization!

[@pateast502]

Me too!

[@StonnieDennis]

That's exactly how it works in the real world if one is careful about selecting their peer groups.

[@susanlippy1009]

I think dogs raised around lots of other k-9 buddies tend to do well in group situations as they are well versed in doggie conversation but most dogs we have rarely get the chance to work and adventure with other pups and just like anyone raised in isolation they develope issues. If you notice all the dogs he has out are all engaged in activities. They are moving with purpose. They are not just standing around in a sterile environment twiddling thumbs looking for trouble.

[@clausherther]

Thank you for this great perspective, especially on e-collars, exactly what I was looking for.

[@JoePaul-q7s]

Agree. E Collars, what a terrible tool for almost ever situation. Do more with your dog and reward good behavior, that alone will give you a good dog.

[@ambermunson2988]

Thanks for explaining the problem Stonnie. Do you have any practical tips for city dwellers who don't have the luxury of letting our dogs off leash?

[@anneg8319]

Dog treadmill? Dog park? Cat?

[@cindyhughes4599]

I have been taking my dog to daycare since he was a puppy ( after he had all his vaccines) . He absolutely loves playing with all his dog friends and i feel good at work knowing he's there having fun. We then go for a walk after i pick him up and we really enjoy that time together. I do appreciate this video a lot Stonnie , I was guilty of a few of these not so good methods .

[@timwilliams6409]

I train my furry friends to walk with me. You're right - in the long process it sometimes takes, your energy goes down the leash, they feel you and that is an important part of how they act. I have made behavior better in many dogs for friends, even a pair of timber wolves once - they were blood brothers, and never fought after I left. The hardest, taking longest to achieve a no pull walk had only been trained in one thing - pulling sleds. His mother was a Champion and he had gotten up to 1600 lbs in training. Very strong dog, and if all dogs were as sweet as him, everyone would want a dog. His owner said to me just before we finished the walk he took with us "I never trained him to walk . . " with bewilderment in his speech and expression. Soft loving voice, calmness, praising the good and downplaying the bad can make them want to do what you'd like to make you happy. Lovingkindness, not yelling and other bad human traits, can work wonders with ease and fun.

[@chilldude7803]

Stonnie you are the man - even though I know you’d say it’s about our dog’s - this is the best video I have seen on YT. My Boxer’s are crazy on the lead and you have put everything into perspective for me…..thank you brother!

[@StonnieDennis]

Thank you for watching!

[@semperfortisjiujitsu]

Excellent philosophy and explanation! I am 54 years old and have had dogs in my life since childhood. You are the first dog trainer I have seen on KZbin that I would trust to help train my family 👪 dog. You have earned my KZbin subscription. Looking forward to seeing your future videos.

[@bettymcconnell1011]

Have learned how to bring up my GSD since a pup she is now 5yrs she loves her walks I have followed you to the letter she follows the lead when I need her too her manners are fab all thanks to you I even thank her for every good job she does

[@isaacali8695]

He pulls on the leash because going for walks is the best experience of his life and he cant wait to do it.

[@andyjohnston919]

The best dog video period.....

[@JuJuLotz]

Love this take and your advice! I know when my dog pulls on the leash it means she has excess energy or anxiety in that moment. I am lucky enough that she loves to please regardless of food or tools.

[@stephaniemcspirit2486]

Outstanding video on walking together and having fun together ! Totally agree that most dogs lead lives of quiet desperation and can explain so many of the behavioral problems we see today. Brilliant! I am following this fellow from now on!

[@laurablockley1269]

Great video….as always! I recently read a book called In Defence of Dogs by John Bradshaw and it has really increased my empathy for my dog, your video adds to this. Not enough people understand their dogs properly. What good tips can you give us for pre fatiguing if we don’t have a big garden/field like you? I was thinking things like mental work in the home and garden, even just as simple as scattering their food out on the lawn so they have to sniff it out to find it and use their brain and natural scavenging behaviours?

[@cherylanderson8324]

Well said! I had to take a minute and be thankful that I can work from home and my pup doesn’t spend her days in a box.

[@bonniejeffery9216]

Uncle Stonnie.....you are the best!! Biblical principles-love, trust, patience, respect, etc......train yourself, train your dog, train your children. My fox red English lab Ruby Rose (who wants to be a black lab, by the way 🙂) knows your name- when I say, "let's watch Uncle Stonnie" or " Uncle Stonnie says..." Ruby gets excited and wags her tail.

[@StonnieDennis]

Thank you! I'm glad you enjoy our content!

[@jdhartman100]

Thank you Stonnie. More people need to hear this message. Love your dog training and how you spend quality time with the dogs.

[@paulfrederiksen5639]

The uncomfortable truth is that the vast majority of dog owners have no business owning a dog. They have neither the time nor the interest in sharing their life with another soul. It’s all about them and what they want from their dog. Same is true for the vast majority of horse owners. We humans can be horrifically selfish.

[@cjdflkj]

I have an acquaintance. She hates dogs. Her 12 year old was entirely responsible for “the child’s dog”. The dog just died at age 5 from preventable causes because the mom would not take the dog to the vet. It died over a week long illness. She then got donations for another dog. She got a lab puppy and says she will never walk it, not her dog. That big lab will not be so easy to manage as their small dog.

[@dottyk1637]

​@@cjdflkjpoor dog, both of them.

[@tatjanagadanski6625]

Stonnie, just Thank You. Today I went exercising Red Cross Rescue Units, here in Italy. I also had you in my mind. My great appreciation to you and your videos!

[@rversocal8889]

Thank you for saying the quiet part out loud. It’s not easy but we owe it to them for everything that they give us. After having lost a few (from old age and all) I definitely don’t want to have any regrets with the current pups.

[@Julia-lj8bc]

Great advice! I was very frustrated because my dog and I had hit a learning plateau and she just wouldn't focus on leash walking at all and when I realised how frustrated I was and how I was starting to let it out on her I paused and tried to figure out WHY. My answer was: I have a mix of breeds (main part Viszla) that was bred to be extremely focused on their surrounding and go from 0 to 100 in a matter of seconds. And on top of that, she's in the middle of puberty. Her main problem was that she would just get too excited by other triggers and not be able to manage that excitement herself. So I managed my expectations, helped her with managing her excitement and when she gets too over the top to focus, we take a break, reset her focus on me and continue, when I know, I have her attention. Oh and this is maybe 10% of our walk, the rest is adventuring together, free walking, dummy and scent training, silly play etc. I totally agree, 15 second clips will not "solve" your dogs leash walking. Listening to your dog and treating them fairly and with respect will.

[@adventureswithsammy7154]

My springer just follows her nose. After a bit she drop back and follow lead well. At time, she is 4, I thought we were just doing too much off leash trail hiking, 45 to 55 miles a week. Normal style is 6am yard time, then after some coffee we do a morning walk, mid day, evening walk. Every other day is the adventure days, still morning walks but follows with 8 to 12 mile moutain off leash hike. I need day of recovery, and she show no sides of being tired. We have much longer hikes with dog showing no negative effects on daily checkup. Thanks again for all you do. Sharing by doing really helps. Only thing I (selfish) would love to see is 2022 field springer with Uncle Stonnie.

[@markwilburn546]

Hi Stonnie, I'm following your instructions; therefore, I stopped the video at the 1:45 mark to give my humble opinion as to why dogs pull on the leash. I don't have much experience with dogs. I spent my whole life in the military and never had a dog until recently when I got a service dog for PTSD. I've noticed that when we are in a crowd or in a store and I give the command "heel" that she doesn't pull on the leash; however, when we are just walking for fun and adventure, she constantly pulls. I can give her the "heel" command and she will respond appropriately, but I don't because I feel like she needs to have some time for herself just to be a regular dog. Now I'll watch the rest of the video and see just how much I don't know. Thanks.

[@markwilburn546]

Wow! I was genuinely surprised with your explanation. I guess I'm doing the right thing. Thanks Stonnie.

[@cathykirkham1438]

I appreciate your insight into what a dog Needs. Your experience truly comes thru. We are a couple, over 50. We rescued a male Corso and a female Presa. They are truly a daily training experience, after 4 years, we are blessed, we also have a senior pom and a mix, border collie/lab. If we didn't have a farm, I don't know that we would have taken them on. They both now love children, very protective, but true to the breeds, they are so loving.

[@JoshuaDeRousse-w9q]

I’ve been binge watching all of your videos, and I felt the need to stop and say this is by far one of your best videos I have watched. Thank you for your inspiration, and all the time you’ve put into your videos! Keep it up!

[@PawsuasiveDogTeaching]

0:42 I absoltuely 1000% agree with that. I know I stress in my dog teaching videos always take it slow. Never want to push a dog too fast or you will just take many steps back in the teaching. Would love to travel to KY sometime to collab on a video.

[@dottyk1637]

Same principal in horse training, take it slow, you'll progress faster, or else you'll have to go back to those same steps you rushed. A good foundation is crucial.

[@rainerkaufmann240]

One of the best Videos. Words of wisdom. It's about life.

[@warbonnett1]

Awesome content, Stonnie. My lab is a little hyper and I'm a city boy training Jim for ducks. When I don't get him the exercise, and I leave him alone too much, all the bad behaviors come out. I always say that players win games and coaches lose games. i.e. owners set the dog up for the victories. ❤

[@fuyu5979]

My dog used to pull on his leash because he wants to go a particular spot while I'm walking him in my neighborhood or park. Kudos for an interesting n informative upload. Anticipating ur next one. Peace

[@paulinebarrett1800]

What a ray of sunshine. Hit the nail on the head with this vidio. Thank you

[@SmileyTheAxolotl-hl8kg]

Thank you for suggesting to consider this behavior from a dog's perspective.❤ Love your videos and approach to training.

[@joycegillett6410]

Thank you Stonnie, I’ve only just recently found you online, and I think you are just amazing. I have two grand dogs, to be exact, Huskies. One 7 Month old Alaskan Malamute mix and a 31/2 year old Siberian Husky. My dogs pull because of their breed. But that doesn’t mean they cant be trained. The 3 yr old is pretty good on a leash. Listens quite well. But the 7 mth old is not so good. I’ve done most of the training with them. I AM NO EXPERT!!! But I am trying. I only have them for short periods but most days. By the way, I live in Newfoundland, Canada.

[@keithlandry6533]

Thank you for the straight talk about dog training and dog behavior. I've found it extremely helpful with my puppy and have even shared it with people at the local off leash dog and found that many people who have dogs are almost totally unaware of some basics. Thank you!

[@vantaa3534]

Im happy to hear such advice! I noticed something similar with my lancashire heeler puppy, when i let him off leash he has an amazing recall and is very polite just from the pure joy of freedom, but on leash he gets frustrated since i dont always let him do what he wants and he stops listening to me completely. I hope gets less frustrated with the leash soon

[@trek150082]

Crazy good video. I agree and am glad that a video like this is out there to help dogs and their owners. Thanks stonnie!

[@watson249]

One of the very best videos I’ve ever found. Excellent as are all the others. And love your accent too.

[@StonnieDennis]

Thank you!

[@silviaancheta7227]

The first dog trainer I see puts things out there the way they are. Call it for what it is, which is that dogs pull on the leash due to the lack of good decisions by the pet parents. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@mojomagic8148]

Bingo! Sadly, like many married folks, dogs often live quiet (and/or loud and destructive) lives of desperation, whether stuck in a crate or in a lousy marriage. I let my Flat-coated Retriever roam as a pup, and explore his new world and yes he pulled like a train. How can you deny your pal a good sniff, romp, and peep? Think like a Dog! At 18 months, and after hundreds of miles of walks, there's no pulling, he remains on-heel, knowing he'll get plenty of 'OK' releases to do his thing. And the occasional bit of steak reward for coming back on-heel seems to help, hah. Oh, and my dogs poop in the designated side potty yard, so don't be squatting in my grass, lol. Excellent, video and approach. I just found your site and will be watching more.

[@caroledaws5891]

Love this guy what an insight into some dogs lives

[@keving4081]

This may be your best video ever. People wonder why all of my dogs are so "good". I can assure you that I am not a great trainer. It's because I have always taken into account my dog's perspective. I take them everywhere. Selfishly because I like spending time with them. If they aren't welcome I don't go. Here is my advice about e-collars. Don't ever use an e-collar unless you have tried it on yourself. If it doesn't make an impression then hand the controller to someone else.

[@patwaite745]

Informative and helpful; love that the relationship is the foundation of the compliance!

[@seahorse5689]

Totally agree! Once bumped into an old friend of my husband's who had adopted three pre-teen boys from the same family. My husband asked her how she was dealing with them as they ran through the woods around the park we were in, she said: "I treat them like puppies: I feed them, water them and let them run around outside until they are tuckered out." So, works for kids too. :)

[@flybyni86]

Complete explanation. I really enjoy and learn a lot from your videos . Thank you !!

[@StonnieDennis]

I’m glad you like our content!

[@markbeaver5010]

Great video Stonnie, my German Shepard puppy is going to get exactly what you prescribed on our walks. Thank you so much!!

[@michaelcobb5454]

I think my 3 1/2 month German shorthair pulls on the leash for a number of reasons, not least of which are the failings of his somewhat distracted owner. I have noticed he is more apt to pull on the leash when he hasn’t been exercised, or we are on a busy street with a narrow sidewalk and he appears a bit anxious. Thanks for the great content.

[@rizla6220]

This my thoughts, Has you said we need to understand what your dog needs, I have a 3yr chocolate labrador working line, Does matter how long the car drive is 15min or 3hrs he will take a pee, when i let him out of the car. Going on a walk he will pull for the first 10-20 mins has he sniffs everything till he has done his No2, then he walks just fine. I think the advice in this video is the best i have seen on Utube.

[@rtd85]

I dont have a dog but am considering getting one. i like your approach to dog training.

[@tylergargala8853]

i'm quite certain that my Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (I came to know about the breed via your video comparing them to a GSP, by the way! Love her so!) pulls on the leash not because she's trying to be disobedient, but because her hunt drive is very high and she's a 5 month old puppy... so everything is very interesting and piques her curiosity. We went on a walk over my lunch break and she was very attentive, until a gust of wind blew some fallen leaves in front of us... and she went into full on 'pounce' mode.

[@OffGridDogs]

This is possibly the best dog training video ever made.

[@susan1098]

What a marvelous tutorial! I’m getting my puppy in 4 weeks. I’m so excited I found your video.

[@suzannsmith1967]

I love to rewatch your content sir. Two labs at 70 lbs each need a lot of exercise. I live in Las Vegas and off leash is not welcome, but I've managed to get to parks at the right time when it's pretty much just me and my dogs so they can run. Once their initial energy is expelled they are perfect on a leash for me.

[@justdawndb]

I wish every single person that has a dog could see this! THANK YOU!

[@garylucier3197]

I’ve been watching you for years and absolutely love the content you put out. Much respect for your honesty and respect for dogs. They definitely don’t get as much as they deserve. Loving your dog and respecting your dog can be two entirely different things. You’ve made my standard schnauzer one of the best friends a man could ask for. All the best to you and yours, 🍻

[@Damian-dv6qx]

Stonnie, I have really appreciated all of the content you share. I have often wondered how, or if, your jiu jitsu training has influenced your dog training methodology and vice versa. I know when I first started training bjj I was an instructor in the military teaching how to defuse bombs and found some very useful overlap with the two. Thanks again and take care.

[@StonnieDennis]

100%

[@sarahbehler5437]

Ohmygo…i am a dog on a leash. Living a life of quiet desperation. Locked in small rooms, with someone yankin’ my chain :( thank god my poor dog puts up with me. 9 month old lab. My answer to why my dog pulls on the leash - because his cat is a terrible tease! ;) Thank you for you videos. They have helped so mush in these past few months! My last dog was 23, a lab wire hair, who never really needed training, and it had been a lifetime since I was around a puppy. I still need so much training but think he is doing a good job so far! Afraid he is much smarter than most folks I know, lol, am constantly amazed by him! We learned a couple little signs (sign language) and it has opened a whole world of communication. Biggest struggle is off leash & the word come. Have to say it at least three times while he wanders off following his nose! Need him to listen if my mom has him (she is older & can’t run after him) but it is very hit or miss at this point. Hahaa, depends how good that rabbit poop smells or something. This video reminds me how I need more consistent training. Dog, too, but probably more myself! Thanks again!

[@TheGrumbliestPuppy]

Right? Now imagine that but without books, tv, internet, etc. People don't realize how unhappy their dogs are when they only get 20 minutes of exercise daily.

[@sarahbehler5437]

@@TheGrumbliestPuppy mhmm. Am sure it is hard. For the people & the dogs. I am mostly home so this one is more free than many, probably. He has a bell on the doorknob & rings it when he wants to go out. Lol, mostly we let him out whenever he wants, but he also totally abuses such power!

[@rachw4053]

Super advice! My puppy seems to pull on the leash until she finds a suitable place to poop and then kind of calms down! I try my best to let her sniff and meet other dogs and humans! She has freedom in my back garden and doesn't understand why she's restricted outside

[@rawanb.832]

Because she wants to run and that’s what we do daily to release that need. Great video. Thank you!!!

[@darlenemitchell3679]

Omg how you described how most people have dogs in the beginning is so accurate! Drives me crazy.

[@victorsr6708]

You know how they say listen to your heart, well my heart had been telling me that most dog training videos were wrong, This is solid advice that Stoney is giving here, be fair to the dog and be disciplined enough to give your dog what they need. All other videos are about the human instead of focusing on the dog.

[@canineconsigliere806]

I really enjoy your content, Stonnie. When my dogs pull on the leash, I believe it is for two reasons. 1. Because he and she are following interests that my human senses do not register (or care about). 2. They simply desire to walk faster than I desire to. Every dog owner thinks, "why does my dog want to walk so fast" and every dog thinks, "why does my human want to walk so slow". Also, I haven't asked them (yes "asked") to pace me. When I do, they are pretty good about staying by my side :) Edit: Now, having watched the entire video, it is beyond refreshing to listen to someone speak about "Canine Fulfillment" and the core reasons for dog behaviors instead of the "quick fixes".

[@rectify2003]

So True about how people treat their Dogs and the live in quiet desperation is very sad The fact that they dont want to hear the truth is hitting a raw nerve Subscribed