Obedience
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      Left Side Position

      Introduction:

      Imagine leisurely strolls with your furry companion by your side, perfectly positioned at your left hip. No more tangled leashes, unexpected lunges, or awkward sidewalk shuffles. The left side position is a foundational skill for every dog owner, promoting control, communication, and a seamless connection during walks and everyday interactions. This article will guide you through teaching your dog to walk calmly and confidently by your left side, address common misconceptions, and offer helpful tips for enjoying stress-free adventures together.

      Common Misconceptions:

      • It's only for show dogs: Mastering the left side position benefits all dogs, regardless of breed or purpose. It improves control, communication, and safety during walks and everyday interactions.
      • He just needs more exercise: While exercise is crucial, proper leash manners are essential for ensuring safe and enjoyable walks. The left side position provides structure and control, promoting a more relaxed and focused walk.
      • It's too late to teach an old dog new tricks: Age is no barrier to learning! With patience and positive reinforcement, any dog can master the left side position, regardless of their age or previous training experience.

      Steps to Address:

      • Teaching: 
        • Use an Indoor lure to encourage your dog to your left-hand side and reward with treats for the right side position.
        • Practice walking slowly and changing direction while your dog tracks your left-hand side. 
      • Reinforcing: 
        • Gradually use less treats as your dog tracks your left-hand side. 
        • Gently correct, reset and reposition your dog if they stray from your left
        • Give your dog gentle reminders to track your left-hand side, and reward intermittently.
        • Make sure your dog has fun.
      • Proofing: 
        • Practice good walking habits in the real-world and around lots of distractions and energy.
        • Practice walking at different speeds and in different distractions while your dog continues to track your left-hand side. 
        • Adapt to the unexpected, and be ready to re-engage your dog if they become distracted.
      • Maintenance: 
        • Practice good walking manners with your dog every day. 
        • Give them gentle reminders if they start to regress, become opportunistic, or get distracted. 
        • Seek professional help if needed, and remember to enjoy the process.

      Pet Parent Coaching Tips:

      • Keep it Fun and Engaging: Use a playful tone, high-value treats, and fun distractions to keep your dog motivated and engaged.
      • Be Patient and Consistent: Progress takes time and patience. Celebrate small victories and stick to your training plan, even when faced with setbacks.
      • Read Your Dog's Body Language: Pay attention to your dog's signals of stress or discomfort. Adjust your approach or take breaks if needed.
      • Make it a Team Effort: Involve other family members in the training process to reinforce the desired behavior and ensure consistency.
      • Seek Support if Needed: Don't hesitate to consult a qualified dog trainer if you encounter challenges or need personalized guidance for your training journey.

      Frequently Asked Questions:

      Q: My dog pulls! How can I stop it?: 

      A: Avoid rewarding pulling by stopping and waiting until your dog relaxes and returns to your side. Then, resume walking and reward them for maintaining the correct position.

      Q: He lunges at other dogs/things! What do I do?: 

      A: Practice in controlled environments and gradually introduce distractions. Teach a reliable "leave it" command to redirect your dog's attention and prevent lunging.