Harness training and leash walking are two practices that are essential when it comes to Greyhound training. These phenomenal creatures are famously known for their exceptional speed, agility, and hunting prowess. Despite their athleticism, Greyhounds can be relaxed and gentle companions that need careful handling. Training your Greyhound to walk on a leash and wear a harness can bring immense satisfaction, but also has its challenges, due to their natural instinct to run and chase.
When approaching harness training, it’s essential to note that Greyhounds have a unique physic compared to other breeds. They possess a deep chest and slim waist, requiring a custom-designed harness to prevent injury and promote comfort during walks.
The first step in harness training your Greyhound is finding the right harness. This can be either a ‘figure-8’ style harness or a ‘Roman’ style harness. The ‘figure-8’ harness is generally more comfortable and secure, but the ‘Roman’ style harness can accommodate Greyhounds with broader chests. It’s advisable to seek professional guidance from a pet store to ensure you purchase the correct size and design for your Greyhound.
When introducing the harness to your Greyhound, it’s vital to create a relaxed environment. Since Greyhounds are naturally anxious, it’s best to take things slow and have lots of patience. Allow the dog to investigate the harness first, and then gradually begin to place it over their head or step their legs into it, depending on the harness design.
Rewarding your Greyhound when they tolerate the harness is key in the training process. Greyhounds respond well to positive reinforcement like rewards and praises, which help inculcate that wearing a harness is a positive experience. Using treats can be an excellent motivation for your dog to accept the harness.
Once your Greyhound is comfortable wearing the harness, you can start leash training. The leash should be long enough to give your Greyhound some freedom to explore, but short enough for you to maintain control. A 6-foot leash is generally suitable for this purpose.
Next, instill a verbal command, such as “walk” or “heel,” to begin leash training. Initially, keep the sessions short and gradually increase the duration as your Greyhound becomes more comfortable.
Remember that Greyhounds are sight hounds – they’re instinctively driven to chase anything that moves. It’s advisable during the early days of leash-training to avoid areas with abundant wildlife or off-leash dogs. The goal is to maintain a calm environment that promotes focus.
If your Greyhound pulls on the leash, a quick tug back with a verbal command to “heel” or “wait” should help manage the situation. Consistent repetition of this reinforcement teaches the dog to walk calmly without pulling.
Greyhounds are generally sociable creatures, and they tend to get excited when they see other dogs or people. Establish control during these moments by keeping your Greyhound close and using a firm yet gentle command. Do this repeatedly, and your dog should start to understand what is expected of them.
In situations where your Greyhound becomes overly excited, such as approaching other dogs, it is essential to use a calm, assertive voice and firm handling to regain their attention. Retract the leash and give a ‘sit’ command. Only proceed once your Greyhound has calmed down and is exhibiting submissive behavior.
Remember, harness and leash training your Greyhound is not an overnight process. It’s expected that progress could be slow and filled with challenges. Handling these with patience, consistency, understanding, and a generous dose of love goes a long way in achieving a successful outcome.
In conclusion, harness training and leash walking your Greyhound are integral aspects of helping these graceful dogs fit into our urban lifestyles. They provide you with control while prioritizing the dog’s comfort and safety. By engaging with the recommended training strategies, you prepare your pet for a life where they can enjoy their walks and their racing nature safely and happily.
