My Thoughts about dog training

Fun Walks

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Stop yanking on your dogs neck and being dragged around 

Fun Walks

Kaiser sitting with head halter

The first problem I notice when dogs are on leash is the type of collar or harness they are wearing. Sometimes the device is encouraging your dog to pull, kinda like a sled dog.

Going on walks should be a win win for everyone. Your dog gets to be a dog and you get focus when it's necessary. 

Gentle leaders are not muzzles. They are an effective and painless managing tool. I have more confidence around owners when their dog is wearing one. 

Below are a few of my recommendations to start dog training. If you want the complete list, press I'm In!!

Why a gentle leader or head halter

  • ​No pain or discomfort: Gentle leaders or head halters work by controlling a dog's head instead of their body, which can help prevent any pain or discomfort that may be caused by a collar, prong collar, slip lead, or even a regular harness.
  • ​Better control: With a gentle leader or head halter, you have more control over your dog's movements, which can help prevent pulling or lunging on walks.
  • ​No choking or gagging: Unlike some other collars, gentle leaders or head halters do not put pressure on a dog's neck or throat, which can help prevent choking, gagging, or other breathing problems.
  • ​Reduces risk of injury: When used correctly, gentle leaders or head halters can reduce the risk of injury to both the dog and the owner, especially during walks or training sessions.
  • ​Can be used on any breed: Gentle leaders or head halters can be used on any breed of dog, regardless of size or strength, making them a versatile option for dog owners.
Oliver and Winnie on a walk
  • Encourages positive training: By using a gentle leader or head halter, you can encourage positive training techniques, such as reward-based training, instead of relying on punishment or negative reinforcement.
  • ​​Builds trust and respect: When used consistently and correctly, a gentle leader or head halter can help build trust and respect between a dog and their owner, which can improve the overall relationship and communication between them.
Frost, Snowflake, and Spyro wait by the door jpeg
Dog at park

At the end of the day

It is another managing device, nothing compares to training your dog to know where to be. But while you are on the way this is what I recommend and it is the type of trainer I want to be. 

I think about it like working out, sure there are ways to get muscle faster or lose weight with injections or surgeries. But I have found the results don't last because the skills of meal planning, the mindfulness found in working out, or delayed gratification and celebrating the achievements along the way aren't learned completely because shortcuts don't require the same effort.

Your dog will respect you as you continue to show up for training and guide them through learning moments. The gentle leader is my favorite way to bridge the gap between pulling and your dog wanting to be at your side. 

Bum hiking family.jpeg

Hi! I Am Brady Foulk

Founder & Head Trainer Of New Direction Dog Training

Over the last 6 years I have collected quite a few stories, pictures, and mindsets that I will be documenting here. This is meant to be a resource for myself to look back on and for anyone else who finds it useful. Thank you and remember the secret is in the sequence!

New Direction Dog Training

The biggest DISABILITY you can have…

Is a BAD MINDSET.

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