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Archived Message

ORIGINAL MESSAGE:
by R. Simhon

My Princess Maltese is 4 months old and I take her daily to walk in the park. When I have her on the leash, she tends to follow my sneakers (in back of me). I pull her gently to my side but it doesn't work because she waits for my feet to pass and follow them. She sometimes darts to strangers too but I've controlled that somewhat. How do you get her to follow on the side? Thank you in advance!

DISCUSSION:

The best way to teach your baby is to enroll her in an obedience class. You will have so much fun there and she will learn to heel very quickly.
-Marsha A.

Find a toy or a treat to interest the pup in. Try to hold it front of the pup as an enticement to follow the "bait" instead of you. Shorten up the amount of lead you give - even if it means holding the lead down about six inches or so from the dog's neck. Extend your arm out to your side and move very slowly holding the "bait" in front of the pup's nose. You may almost be turned sideways or even walking backwards yourself but reward with praise even small improvements. Be patient and try to do this in a place with minimum distractions around you. I agree with Marsha, an obedience class is a good idea - as it will teach "you" the techniques to use to be successful in training your dog to do whatever it is you'd like to have them do for you.
-Larry Stanberry Divine Maltese

I agree, I think it would be a good idea to enroll in an obedience class. In my area they have a puppy kindergarten which teaches all of the basic commands to the younger pups (and owners) with another regular obedience class for older dogs. Try it and Good Luck!
-Robin