Hi, just need a bit of advice. We have had advice of different people and tried all things they have said and it doesn’t work. We have issues with walking she pulls like mad so tried harness, Halti but only improved slightly, if she sees other dogs she goes absolutely crazy starts biting at my arms and the lead. If she sees people walking past she tries to jump and nip (not in an agresive way but I wouldn’t like it if a dog did that to my children) goes crazy when a bike scooter skateboard goes past and does what I said. Can’t let her off the lead on the Beach because of these problems. She has 2x1 hr walks a day and she is okay at home but soon as we go out she is a different dog. I keep being told it’s a crazy lab thing but I get so embarrassed when waking her. Please HELP HAHA
Hi @Hayley Godsall have these problems just emerged? What socialisation took place when she was very young puppy? You explain that you have tried a halti. and all the things individuals have suggested. What else have you attempted? Have you attended a positive reinforcement dog obedience class? My advice would be to get a dog behaviourist to come in and help you with the range of problems you have. The problems will not go away. She will become stronger and as a result the consequences of her behaviour will be worse. Let us know where you live (city and country) and we may be able to suggest a training organisation you can contact.
@Hayley Godsall what is your dog like when off leash, with other dogs? It sounds to me like she is frustrated that she can't get to the other dog on leash and so she is redirecting that into mouthing behaviour towards you. Are your walks on or off-leash? I really believe that dogs need off-leash exercise and the freedom that comes with that. Of course, she needs to have a reliable recall and for you to train that with her on a 10m long-line at first... Whilst equipment won't solve the problem for you, it is important to get it working for you and on your side. There are many different kinds of harness - I recommend a Freedom harness, for you - if you are dealing with these control issues, that will give you the best control. I wouldn't recommend a Halti as most dogs dislike them and find them to be aversive. The next step will be Look At That training: https://thelabradorforum.com/threads/look-at-that.22184/
