Heel training will keep dog from tugging on leash

Dear Cathy: I just rescued a sweet 11-pound Maltese mix. But my arthritic hands and fingertips prevent me from opening those squeeze clasps on collars and harnesses.

She pulls her leash so hard, especially when seeing squirrels, she chokes herself and I fear falling.

My research hasn’t turned up any solutions. Perhaps you can provide one. — GG, West Hartford, Connecticut

Dear GG: I don’t know of any special canine handling equipment for people with arthritis. But there are two approaches you can take to address your problem: finding equipment that will be easier on your hands and training your dog to heel.

Let’s start with equipment. I recommend using a head collar, like a Gentle Leader, rather than a harness, as it is designed to control the dog around the snout (much like a horse), which provides better control of your dog. All you have to do is move the lead slightly in any direction, and your dog will follow. Once you fit the head collar for your dog, keep the leash attached to it, so you don’t have to continually take it on and off. The head collar also will make it easier for your dog to learn how to heel.

Another option is a slip lead, which looks like a regular leash but has a loop on one end that goes over your dog’s head, so there is nothing to attach. When you tug on the lead, it tightens around the dog’s neck, which gets its attention. Trainers often use slip leads as a training tool, but if not used properly, these leads can result in throat injuries. If you want to use this completely clasp-free approach, please consult a trainer to teach you how to use one. A slip lead is especially great for a loose-leash walk once your dog learns how to heel.

You also can look for a leash with a French scissor-snap connector. It still relies on your thumb but is a little easier to use. Or you can use a carabiner to connect the O-ring on the leash to the O-ring on the collar. They are much easier to open and close than a clasp.

Now for the training. Using a head collar or a slip collar, step off and say your dog’s name, followed by the word “heel.” Tap your leg to get your dog’s attention. When your dog walks next to you, say a reward word, like “bingo,” and give your dog a treat. Continue doing this for as long as your dog remains by your side. The moment your dog gets ahead of you, reverse direction and repeat the command. It’s important to reverse direction every time your dog gets ahead of you.

If you are persistent, your dog will learn how to heel, which will give your hands a much-needed break from the pulling.