Training dogs to walk politely by your side

training dogs to walk politely by your side

Introduction

Training dogs to walk politely by your side is a valuable skill that can improve daily walks and strengthen your bond. While this article mainly focuses on dogs, some basic training principles might also apply to cats and other small pets in certain cases.

Training is primarily about clear communication, ensuring safety, and building a positive relationship between you and your pet. It is not about punishment or causing fear. Using kind, reward-based methods helps pets learn in a comfortable and enjoyable way.

This guide offers general advice to help you get started with polite walking and other basic skills. However, every pet is unique, and some may need tailored support. If you encounter challenges or complex behaviours, it is best to consult a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional for personalized guidance.

Reviewed by the SASI Vet Behavior & Basic Training Editorial Board.

Foundations of positive basic training

Training dogs to walk politely by your side is best achieved through modern, humane methods that focus on positive reinforcement. Using rewards such as treats, praise, or play can encourage your dog to repeat desired behaviours. Timing is important-rewards should be given immediately after the correct action to help your dog make the connection.

Core principles to keep in mind

• Consistency: Regular practice with clear cues helps your dog understand what is expected.
• Small steps: Breaking tasks into manageable parts can make learning easier and less overwhelming.
• Short sessions: Keeping training brief and fun maintains your dog’s interest and reduces stress.

It is important to avoid physical punishment, intimidation, or any tools that cause pain or fear. Such methods may damage your relationship with your dog and could lead to unwanted behaviours. Instead, focus on building trust and using gentle guidance.

If you encounter challenges or your dog shows signs of stress, consulting a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional might be helpful. They can provide tailored advice to support your training journey safely and effectively.

Using rewards and motivation effectively

When training dogs to walk politely by your side, using rewards thoughtfully can make learning enjoyable and clear. Different types of rewards may work better for different pets, so it’s helpful to observe what motivates your dog most.

Types of rewards

• Food treats: Small, tasty treats are often very effective for quick reinforcement.
• Praise: Calm, enthusiastic verbal encouragement can support positive behaviour.
• Toys and play: Some dogs respond well to a favourite toy or a short play session.
• Life rewards: Allowing your dog to go outside, sniff, or explore can be a meaningful reward.

Deliver rewards immediately after the desired behaviour to help your dog understand what you are reinforcing. Over time, you might slowly reduce how often you give treats, while still praising or offering other rewards. This helps your dog learn to respond reliably without expecting food every time.

Remember, rewards guide your dog’s learning rather than acting as bribes. If you find training challenging or your dog shows signs of stress, consulting a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional could provide helpful, personalized support.

Teaching core basic cues step by step

Training dogs to walk politely by your side often begins with teaching core basic cues that build a foundation for good behaviour. Start by working in a quiet, low-distraction environment to help your dog focus. Using positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, rewards your dog for responding correctly and encourages them to repeat the behaviour.

Key cues to teach

• Name recognition: Call your dog’s name and reward them when they look at you promptly.
• “Sit” and “Down”: Encourage your dog to sit or lie down by guiding them gently and rewarding the action immediately.
• “Come when called”: Use a happy tone and reward your dog for coming to you, starting from short distances.
• “Wait” or “Stay”: Teach your dog to pause by asking for a brief wait and gradually increasing the duration before giving a reward.
• “Leave it”: Help your dog learn to ignore distractions by rewarding them for looking away or moving away from an object.

Patience and consistency are important. Avoid harsh corrections or aversive tools, as these can cause fear or confusion. If you encounter challenges or your dog shows signs of stress, consulting a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional may be helpful to ensure safe and effective progress.

House training and daily routines

Establishing consistent daily routines can greatly support training dogs to walk politely by your side and other basic behaviours. Feeding your pet on a regular schedule helps regulate their digestion and makes it easier to predict when they need to go outside for toilet breaks.

Regularly supervising your dog indoors allows you to gently guide them towards appropriate toileting areas. Rewarding your pet immediately after they eliminate in the right place encourages them to repeat this behaviour. Patience is important, especially with puppies and young animals, as they may take time to fully understand house training expectations.

Using a crate or safe area

Crate training or providing a safe, comfortable area can be a helpful part of house training. When introduced positively, these spaces offer your dog a secure place to rest and may reduce accidents indoors. It’s important to ensure the crate is never used for punishment and that your dog has plenty of opportunities for exercise and social interaction outside of it.

Tips for success

• Keep feeding and toileting times consistent each day.
• Supervise your dog closely indoors to catch early signs they need to go out.
• Use gentle praise and treats to reward correct toileting behaviour.
• Be patient and set realistic expectations, especially with young dogs.

If you encounter challenges or need tailored guidance, consider consulting a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional for support.

Leash manners and everyday handling

Training dogs to walk politely by your side often begins with encouraging a loose leash. Reward your dog with treats or praise when they walk calmly without pulling. If your dog starts to pull, gently stop walking and wait for the leash to relax before moving again. This helps your dog learn that pulling does not get them where they want to go.

Practising calm behaviour around distractions can also support polite leash walking. Gradually expose your dog to different environments and reward calm responses, always moving at a pace that feels comfortable for your pet.

Gentle handling for grooming and vet visits

Everyday handling, such as touching paws, ears, and grooming areas, should be introduced slowly and paired with positive experiences. Use treats and a calm voice to create good associations. This approach may reduce stress during vet visits or grooming sessions.

• Start with brief, gentle touches and gradually increase duration
• Allow your dog to explore grooming tools before use
• Take breaks if your dog shows signs of discomfort

Remember, patience and kindness are key. If you encounter challenges, consulting a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional can provide tailored guidance to keep training safe and enjoyable for both you and your dog.

Preventing common behaviour problems early

Starting basic training early can help reduce the risk of common behaviour issues such as jumping up, mouthing, excessive barking, or fearful reactions. Teaching your dog calm behaviours and providing consistent guidance may encourage polite interactions and build confidence.

Training dogs to walk politely by your side is one example of a foundational skill that supports good manners and helps manage energy levels during walks. Early practice of this and other simple commands can create a positive routine for both you and your dog.

Providing outlets for energy and mental stimulation

Dogs often develop unwanted behaviours when they have excess energy or lack mental challenges. Offering appropriate physical exercise and enrichment activities might reduce frustration and boredom. Consider:

• Regular walks and play sessions
• Interactive toys or puzzle feeders
• Short training sessions focusing on new skills

Seeking professional support

If you feel overwhelmed or notice behaviours becoming difficult to manage, early help from a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional could be beneficial. They can offer tailored advice that respects your dog’s welfare and promotes positive learning experiences.

When to seek professional training or veterinary help

Training dogs to walk politely by your side is often achievable with patience and positive reinforcement. However, some behaviours may require additional support from qualified professionals. Issues such as aggression, severe fear, or sudden changes in behaviour could indicate underlying concerns that benefit from expert guidance.

In these cases, it is important to seek help from trainers or veterinary behaviour professionals who use kind, evidence-based methods. Approaches that rely on punishment, dominance, or intimidation are not recommended, as they can cause distress and worsen behaviour problems.

Signs you might need professional support

• Persistent or escalating aggression towards people or other animals
• Extreme fear or anxiety that interferes with daily life
• Sudden and unexplained changes in behaviour
• Difficulty making progress with basic training, including walking politely by your side

If you notice any of these signs, consider consulting a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviourist. They can provide a tailored plan that prioritizes your dog’s welfare and uses positive reinforcement techniques. Early professional advice may help prevent problems from becoming more serious.

FAQs

How long should training sessions be?

Short, frequent sessions tend to work best. Aim for 5 to 10 minutes a few times a day to keep your dog engaged without overwhelming them. Consistency is more important than duration.

When is the best time to start training?

Training can begin as soon as you bring your dog home, even with puppies. Early socialization and gentle guidance help build good habits, but it’s never too late to start with kind, reward-based methods.

What if my dog does not listen?

Patience and consistency are key. Dogs may not respond immediately, especially in distracting environments. Try to keep training positive and reward small improvements. If challenges persist, consider consulting a qualified trainer for tailored support.

Are group classes helpful?

Group classes can be beneficial for socialization and learning in a controlled setting. They also provide opportunities to practice training dogs to walk politely by your side around distractions. Choose classes that use positive reinforcement and gentle techniques.

How can I encourage my dog to walk politely by my side?

Use treats and praise to reward your dog for staying close during walks. Keep sessions calm and consistent, and avoid pulling or harsh corrections. If you need extra help, a professional trainer can offer personalized guidance.

Summary

Training dogs to walk politely by your side is a rewarding journey that requires patience, clear communication, and empathy. Basic training is an ongoing process where small, consistent steps often lead to meaningful progress over time.

Using positive reinforcement and rewards helps your dog understand what behaviors you appreciate, making learning enjoyable and effective. Remember, every dog learns at their own pace, and occasional setbacks are normal.

Key points to keep in mind:

• Focus on clear, gentle cues and consistent expectations.
• Celebrate small improvements to build confidence for both you and your dog.
• Maintain a calm and encouraging attitude throughout training sessions.
• Seek professional guidance if you encounter challenges or need tailored advice.

Asking for help from a qualified trainer or veterinary behaviour professional is a positive step that shows your commitment to your dog’s well-being. With kindness and patience, you can foster a strong bond and enjoy pleasant walks together.

• International Veterinary Behaviour Association (IVBA)
• Association of Professional Dog Trainers (APDT)
• American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior (AVSAB)
• Royal Veterinary College Behaviour Clinic
• Karen Pryor Academy for Animal Training & Behavior

Disclaimer: This article provides general information about basic training and does not replace professional advice. If you are concerned about your pet’s behaviour, consult a qualified trainer or veterinarian.