Sheltie Walks

Question
Hi,

I have bought a sheltie (dog puppy) and will be collecting him in 2 weeks.
I have a good idea on how to train/treat/look-after him in most areas of life, but I would like some advice on taking him for walks.
My main concern is if I let him off the lead for a run in the park - I am worried that he will run off and I will naver see him again or even worse, he will run infront of a car.
Also how do I condition him not to pull ahead on the lead.

Thank you very much for your time.

Jamie Anderson

Answer
Hello Jamie!

My apologies.  Apparently there have been some problems with this website.  First I couldn't link back to the answer the question area, then when I did type the answer last (not this week but last) Monday at 2pm CST you didn't ever get it!

So, I'll answer your question again for the first time! ;)

First, congratulations on working with what sounds like a reputable breeder and bringing home a healthy pup!  You have avoided 90% of dog problems right at the start!

Next, it will be a while before your new Sheltie is mentally able to process commands.  He's an infant!  But you can begin now reinforcing good behavior and encouraging him.

Specifically to the walking:  Put him on a "short" leash and walk him while you are teaching him to do his business outside.  Also teach him his boundaries by walking him along the perimeter where you want him to stay.

When it comes to proper walking, you may want to employ a prong collar to discourage your pup from pulling at the leash.  Choke collars are not effective on double-coated dogs and will actually damage the throat before the dog realizes there is pain.  While it will take 18-24 months for that coat to mature you may want to start obedience at 4-5 months old.

There are many new ways to look at training now.  I suggest crate training and purchsing either "Dog Perfect" by Sarah Hogsdon or "Dog Training for Dummies".  Either resource has the same approach and methods that we employed to have well behaved Shelties.

Another suggestion is to strongly discourage barking, as many Shelties love to bark at EVERYTHING!

I realize that was more than you asked for, I hope you got what you needed!  Let me know if I can be of additional assistance!

'sneezes
Dave