Training Your Dog Not to Switch Sides While Walking on the Leash

By Jess Rollins
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Have you ever been enjoying a walk with your dog when suddenly you are almost tripped by Fido or Fifi unexpectedly crossing in front of you? Not only is it unpleasant, but crossing in front of you like this is dangerous for both you and your dog. Luckily it is fairly easy to teach your dog to stay on one side of you and not to switch sides.

I feel that it is works best to teach your dog leash manners when using a 6 foot leash (not a Flexi-type) and a no-pull harness if your dog pulls.

The first thing to do is decide which side of you that you would like your dog to walk. Then, as your dog is walking on the leash reward him any time he happens to be on your chosen side by saying "yes" or "good" and feeding him a treat right by your side.

Be very careful to feed the treat by your side and not to feed the treat in front of you as that will encourage crossing in front.

While walking your dog, be careful to watch him, and as soon as he starts to cross in front of you, use your leash to prevent him from crossing, and stomp your feet to make your presence known.

Consistently rewarding your dog for being on your preferred side and preventing him from crossing in front by using the leash and by stomping your feet should help teach your dog to stop crossing in front of you and lead to safer and more pleasant walks. Enjoy!

Click here for more tips on training your dog to walk nicely on the leash without pulling.