"montana wildhack" wrote

I'd like to try gentler
methods and just need some basic info on how to do it.

You may be unfamiliar with and confused about different methods and what
may or may not be "gentle". A properly fitted prong collar should not hurt
the dog and yet a "Gentle Leader" or "Halti" may cause the dog to suffer
neck damage. I would advise you not to use any collar that requires some
training, like any of the collars mentioned above.

Ok and thanks! I was wondering about some of the ones that look like a
little harness (goes under the legs and across the chest). We currently use
the same collar wh has been using. It's about 1 inch wide.

I also have us signed up for some obedience classes now.

You do not know whether your dog was abused for sure, but you do know that
your dog is not being abused now. Don't bring your concerns about the
dog's past into his life with you. He is your dog now and he needs to be
trained to fit your life.

Yes, just working on that.

http://www.clickertraining.com/ is a good place to learn about clicker
training. Your timing must be excellent and, like other training methods,
one size does not fit all.

http://dogplay.com/index.html is a good place to get information.

Great and thanks!

You have a Beagle, or Beagle mix, and so you will probably face some
behaviors that are inherent in hounds. Cash will probably be distracted by
his nose.

Grin, thats usually what gets us. He seems to be mostly scent-hound related
mixes, from the looks of him.

One way to practice good leash manners is to start training indoors. Many
people can't imagine using a leash indoors, but it is a very effective
training tool.

Hadnt thought of that! Will try it!

As mentioned, not trying for a perfect heel or anything like that. Just a
bit less of the pulling. He's slowly getting better. I gather the foster
parents let him pull all he wanted to? They mentioned using those long lead
type devices that run out as much as 30 feet. Wont do for our needs so he's
relearning a shorter lead.