When my dog and I run. I normally let her take the leash out as far as it will go. I don't like being pulled through my runs. So if I feel she is setting the pace to fast. I give a small correction (jerk). She turns around to give me that, "what did I do, your the one slowing ME down look" She will slow down. Or I give the heel command, and lock the leash.
Now I know some of you probably don't agree with using the retractable type leashes. I think that all depends on the environment. When we run. We come across at the most five cars during a 5-8 mile run. I can see and hear any car approaching. And my dog does follow commands I have taught her. Such as "come" when a car does approach. At which point the heel command is given, and the leash is locked as a precaution.
If you have a puppy that is not used to a leash yet. You might want to go to a puppy obedience class. I found out this is a big help with young dogs and gives them a good base for later training. Plus, if you have a family, it gets everyone involved with the training. My kids now can give her commands and feel confident she will not pull them across the yard.
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Disco Duck...
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