Hari just doesn't want to walk on his lead! help please!

[Hari]

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I'm having real problems getting my puppy Hari to walk on his lead. I have read a lot of the advice given on the forum and have tried the following:

Attaching the lead indoors and just letting him trail it around behind himself, he does this happily.

Taking treats out on walks and kneeling a few feet in front and calling/beckoning with the treat.

Starting somewhere away from home.

Going out with another puppy.

Going somewhere really quiet away from people and distractions.

Going somewhere lots of other dogs have been so there are plenty of smells to follow and grab his interest.

Despite all this Hari just sits and shakes, he won't come near you for the treat, all he will do is back away half on his belly and whimper. He loves the garden when there is no lead involved. I want so much for Hari to enjoy the outdoors and am feeling like I'm failing him! Please tell me is there something I am missing? Any hints or tips will be gratefully received and I will try them all. Better still if your anywhere remotely near Southend on Sea, Essex and think you can help I would really appreciate it.

Many Thanks

Despondent Dad

 

[goldenbear2013]

you're poor little man sounds very afraid of the outside world.

mine was very similar, he just dug his heels in and wouldnt move for anything! mine is lab too very food orientated and he wasnt interested! it took forever to get him to the top of the street! he wasnt walking on his lead properly for about a month! we just persevered and he now he loves it

i would try picking him up and pop out for 15 minutes. with you holding him he will feel safe and secure and he can have a look around and sniff the air. this will give him chance to get used to the sights and sounds of whats around him whilst he is tucked up safely in your arms.

when you get to spot of grass pop him down and let him be for a little bit. his instinct to sniff about should kick and if his ears prick up slightly and his tail moves from between his legs then give him lots of praise in a very excited tone and a treat if he will take it from you. if he is a bit scared of loud noises lower the tone of your voice and give him a stroke.

i also recommend puppy classes! they are fantastic for general obedience, lead and social training. if the trainer is any good they will know how to deal with a worried dog.

there was a little spaniel in my class that didnt come out from under the bench for about 3 classes he was that scared! our trainer just left him there so he could suss out the world in his own time and now he is a very fun loving active dog who loves his walks.

see how you get on with what ive just suggested and please do get him to a puppy class, i'm sure he will love it

good luck and do let me know how you get on

Sophie

 

[Hari]

Hi Sophie!

Took Hari out to East Beach at Shoeburyness, just sat down on a bench and put him on the floor. He stayed on my foot for a good 15 minutes and just as I was about to call it a day he got up and wandered about a foot away. I stayed for another 30 minutes and by the time I left he had wandered a good six feet away!!! He walked back to the car on his lead! Am so very chuffed! Thank you so much for your great advice!! Here is a pic of him out today!

Hari's Dad, Dan

 

[goldenbear2013]

Hi Dan,

Apologies for my late reply I haven't been on line much this week!

And this is fabulous news!!

Your little man is just adorable and he ventured off on his own! Granted only 6 feet away but what a difference!

I am so genuinely happy for you!

Keep it up and please do let me know how you progress

Sophie