Unleashing Your Dog without a Leash: Identifying When Your Dog is Mature Enough to Go It Alone, According to a Training Expert
Melissa Goodman, a certified dog trainer from Mission Pawsitive, has shared valuable insights on when it's appropriate to let your dog off its leash.
In a series of posts on her Instagram account (@missionpawsitive), Goodman emphasises the importance of a dog's recall becoming second nature before considering off-leash freedom. She explains that while a dog might not always be perfect when it comes to recall, it doesn't mean they can never be off their lead.
Goodman's posts include a photo and a video featuring her dog, Aspen. In the video, Aspen can be seen stopping when Goodman changes direction and walking the other way, which is a cue for Aspen to move with her. Goodman also shares that she rewards Aspen heavily when she stays close by during off-leash walks.
Goodman also highlights that the decision of whether a pup is ready to be off-leash is up to the owner. However, she advises that it's crucial to respect leash laws and consider other people when deciding to let a dog off-leash. She suggests that even if a dog can be called away from anything, it's still beneficial to have a line on them as a backup.
Goodman also recommends putting a pup on a long line as it gives them a degree of freedom while still allowing easier recall. She uses a long line as a backup for Aspen during off-leash walks.
For those struggling with a dog's off-leash behaviour, Goodman's article titled "My dog embarrassed me with her terrible off-leash behavior - here's how I fixed it" might be insightful.
In addition to her Instagram posts, Goodman released training videos on dog recall in 2021 on the Mission Pawsitive platform. These videos are particularly relevant for decisions about off-leash dogs.
Remember, a dog must be able to be recalled by its owner anywhere, and it should come to the owner 98% of the time. The dog should also want to be aware of where the owner is, check in with the owner, and choose to stay relatively close.
Pupford Beef Liver Training Freeze-Dried Dog Treats are a suitable size for training and are a favourite of tester Isaiah's dog Hayes. These treats could be a helpful addition to your training routine.
In conclusion, with patience, consistency, and the right training techniques, letting your dog off-leash can be a rewarding experience for both you and your furry friend. Follow Melissa Goodman's tips and enjoy the freedom of off-leash walks with your dog.
