I agree a better harness might help, but I'd still encourage you to get back to the basics. Don't allow pulling. It's going to be frustrating at first because your "walks" turn into shorter training sessions. You may even have to find another way to get your pups their exercise until they master the leashed walks. (Toss a toy in the yard or in the house, etc.) It wouldn't hurt to exercise them at home BEFORE your walk so they burn off some of that energy. On the walk, what you're trying to do is make yourself more interesting than what they're pulling toward. Here are the things you can try:
* Stop when they pull. Change directions. You'll probably say "I've tried it; it doesn't work!" Consistency is the key for that. Eventually, it will. Keep your walks to 5-10 minutes if they continue to fight you. Don't yell at them. Encourage them to change directions with you. Try whatever you can to make it fun. Always end the session on a success, however small.
* Try luring them with a treat. Hold it in your hand and get their attention, then start walking. If they don't keep their attention on you, consider getting a spatula and putting a little "cheez-whiz" type doggie treat on it. Hold it right in front of their nose. If they stop pulling as you walk, give them a little lick.
* If that doesn't work, dangle a toy in front of them; same idea. The reward for a successful session is letting them play with the toy -- at home when the walk is over.
It can be VERY frustrating, I know. But when it clicks and they focus on you and not pulling, it's equally rewarding and worth the effort.
Good luck!
__________________ Mike ~ Doting Dad to Jillie, Harper, Molly, Cooper, Eddie (RIP), Lucy (RIP), Rusty (RIP) and Jack (RIP). Check us out on YouTube |