Caissie Canine Instruction: Why Do Labradors Walk in Front of You?

We begin this week’s “RUFF TAILS” featuring a beautiful Airedale Terrier named Nora.

Hi there! My name is Nora and I’m a gigantic 5-year-old Airedale Terrier; but sometimes people mistake me for a teddy bear. I love to snooze in the sun and munch on bananas and cheese. Truthfully, I just love food!

 Helping with renovations around the house is one of my favourite things to do, but I usually get caught sleeping on the job. When I’m not sleeping, snacking, or renovating you can find me adventuring in a ravine or forest, especially in the winter!

Some might call me a socialite because I just love making new friends (furry and humans). I don’t think my friends mind that I get a little excited because I am sure to let them know how happy I am by zooming around and showing off my long legs with lots of play-bows. 

Welcome to Doggie Dialogue

We have had first-hand experience with this subject matter, with our Labrador Daisy. Labradors see themselves as the “pack leader” in your household and want to be in control of the directions and the pace of their walk.

Our yellow lab, Daisy was fiercely independent and needed training from the moment she came into our family pack.

Labs are often bred for working and therefore they are naturally inclined to be attentive and follow instructions, therefore walking slightly ahead is because they want to anticipate your “next” move.

When you have a confident, assertive K9 you will want to use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage your K9 to walk by your side by gently redirecting them with a leash when they pull ahead.

Be consistent in your commands and body language to show your K9 that you are the pack leader.

Some K9’s simply love walking ahead to explore and sniff new scents in the area. Remember K9’s are pack animals and leading the way is a natural instinct, thus showing their dominance and leadership.

Training will be important, to ensure that the “leading” does not turn into “pulling”.

Should you need any assistance with leash walking please feel free to reach out to Paul at any time.