| Being able to experience freedom, run around and | | | | you. |
| explore is all part of being a dog. However this can | | | | • Repeat in different places, with increasing |
| only be provided if it is safe. Safety means not only | | | | distractions. |
| a suitable environment, but also a dog who will | | | | • As you become more confident in a safe area, |
| respond to you. If your dog does not want to be | | | | you can drop the lead as your dog begins to run |
| with you, how do you expect him to learn from you? | | | | towards you. |
| • In the house, get someone to hold your dog. | | | | • As he progresses, you can allow him increased |
| Show him a treat or toy and rush away, calling him | | | | freedom in safe places. Call him several times during |
| to you. The other person should let go. Make a huge | | | | the walk, reward him and let him go again. This |
| fuss of your dog and give him the treat or have a | | | | applies whether he is on or off the lead. If he is off |
| game when he reaches you. | | | | the lead, call him to you, put the lead on, reward him |
| • Outside, with your dog on a lead, repeat as | | | | and let him free again. This way he knows that |
| above. The other person should hold the lead, as you | | | | coming to you means more fun, not the end of it. At |
| rush away. When you call the dog, they must keep | | | | the end of the walk, call your dog, put the lead on, |
| hold of the lead and run with the dog until he gets to | | | | have a great game, then go home. |
| you. Reward him. | | | | Even if you do not let your dog off his lead for |
| • Say your dog’s name and show him a treat. | | | | whatever reason, it is important to teach this |
| Run backwards, still holding the lead, but not so | | | | exercise. If he did ever get out on his own, or if the |
| tightly that it is pulling him, and encourage your dog | | | | lead broke, you need to know that he will return to |
| to follow. He must come of his own accord. After a | | | | you. |
| few steps, stop and reward him for stopping with | | | | |