12November 2012
Many times in training dogs, one of the best things you can do to help curb many behavior problems or dog issues is take your dogs on a real pack walk. It is important to use balanced dogs to create your pack. I am very happy to be able to use my own two dogs, Caravaggio & Nekita, in the pack walk. They help get dogs motivated, but also help teach them manners. Many times most dogs newly introduced into a balanced pack will automatically follow and mimic their new pack members. Such Good Dogs recently has had several adventures at Honolua Bay, following the trails through the pineapple fields. Caravaggio & Nekita enjoy teaching new pack members what fun it is to run through the fields, but also teach them to listen to the pack leader (myself) in common commands. The biggest obedience cue I practice on pack walks with new dogs is “Come when called.” Of course we always go with safety first and new dogs are placed on a long line leash so there is no chance of an accidental escape. Using a long line is a great way to introduce your dog to a bit more freedom, but be able to still always be in control. Using the long line is a precursor to being allowed off leash.