Is using choker chain a good idea??

by ANI
(WERRIBEE)

Question

Hi there,
My name is Ani and i have a 4 yr old male Labrador X Kelpie named Buster.

Buster pulls really hard on the lead. i tried everything including the stay command but he wouldnt stop pulling, so i was wondering is using choker chain a good idea??

Answer

Hi there, I would say a big NO to choke chains. this will not teach your dog not to pull or how to heel, all it will teach him is how to avoid pain.

I found a very good article on choke chains which you might benefit from reading.

Teaching Tasha to heel came quite easy for us. I got her on a leash and had her sit beside me.

Once she was sitting I started taking a few steps, if she walked properly beside I would stop give a treat and continue with the walk.

The moment she started pulling away I'd stop and say a firm NO. By saying the NO in a loud clear voice she would notice that something wasn't right, it would kind of stop her in her tracks.

I just carried on doing this and slowly we were able to walk longer distances together with her sticking by my side.

When training your lab to learn something new always use treats and make sure you shower with 'good girl' in your case 'good boy'.

Positive reinforcement rather than any negatives or punishments. When he does wrong, just stop what you are doing and use the firm, clear 'NO'.

I hope this helps :) If anyone else has any other tips for Ani please write in and help out :)