Agree on the Gentle Leader. I use the Premier Easy Walk (both are made by Premier) and it works amazing. Jackson never had this problem of pulling and barking at dogs, but I prevented it before it even began happening. This harness I just love. The D-ring is on the front belly of the harness, rather than the back, and it gently directs them in the other direction. It also greatly helps your dog walk behind you or right beside you. When me & Jackson go for a walk, he walks right beside me and when another dog walks by, he continues on with me no pulling or nothing. Occasionally, he will get excited and begin the tail wagging, but he still will walk by the other dog will no problems. Sometimes, if the other owner allows it, I let them sniff each other and then we continue on.
But anyways, I would suggest you try a harness like that, you can get them at Petsmart or Petco, and practice at some sort of a park where lots of dogs are present and practice, practice, practice. You need to work on yourself more than anything. Make sure there's no tension on the leash coming from you, that makes the dog worse. When you walk by a dog, simply guide your dog in the forward direction, pay no attention to your own dog or the other dog, just think about moving forward. Portray a calm energy and don't get stressed or tensed. It will take practice. I would also suggest to give a yummy treat whenever your dog behaves correctly. |