Expert: Kaza - 1/4/2011

Question
Hi,
I have a 13month bichon Polly and recently she will point blank refuse to walk on her lead. After training her as a young pup she was fantastic on the lead and would go anywhere but now i can't even catch her to put the lead on. I use a harness and an extendable lead so i know that it's not unconfortable for her. .im worried about her gaining weight without proper exercise. Please help!

Answer
Hi Aoife
This is typical bichon behaviour for that age, they all go through this from 10 months to 2 years depending upon how mentally developed they are.
Simply play with the collar and lead in the house so she can regain confidence again, dont attempt to use it just play for a few days then attach lead and take hold an allow her to walk you still in the home, this allows them to feel confident and makes them want to walk, they strutt for a few days. Once confidence is regained start walking her daily DO NOT USE AN EXTENDING LEAD they are dangerous and can cause cervical spine extension and separation.
Use your big toe as her stop point if she goes beyond that simply stop and say NO Polly wait, this ensures she doesnt pull on her lead. Once she stops congratulate her and commence walking again.

it all takes time so be patient, positive and loving trust me it will pay off.

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