They pull we follow...they stop to sniff and we stop...
One of the major requests I receive from owners is how to teach their dogs to walk nicely on leash. If I am describing your walks in the opening line the fastest way to fix this common problem is to STOP letting your dog make the choices. Instead with patience, communication, conditioning and positive feedback you can re-train yourself and your dog to make it a fun learning experience.
The very first step is to do the exact OPPOSITE of what your dog wants to do. He pulls forward you squeak a hidden toy or make a funny sound and encourage him to go with you by movement, clapping your hands, playing a little game. The second you see his eyes praise him for attention and reward with a treat or a nice pat then keep moving throwing in turns, circles and such. Try not to be too linear and boring.
As you change position use your sound marker. This warns your dog to pay attention for the next turn. A little sniffing is normal and healthy for a dog but not a necessity for the entire walk, I usually will do a little Flamenco dance close to the dog and when his had cones up I praise and move on with a hearty "let's go!"
Practice at first in a quiet place and gradually add distractions. I bring cones with me to the park to practice circling and make it a game and to reinforce these basic skills. Don't lose your cool if your dog pulls but stick with the plan and before you know it your little darling will be the pride of the neighborhood.
