Hyper, yelping terrier is handful during walks

#Middlebury

DEAR PAW’S CORNER: A have a wiry little terrier named Chip who is well-behaved inside. However, when it’s time for his daily walk, he begins barking nonstop by the door. When I take him outside on the leash, he keeps barking, and pulls hard on the leash. So much so that he almost hurts himself when the collar digs into his neck. Then he’ll yelp, as if I had hurt him. It’s embarrassing to walk with this hyper, yelping little dog. How can I get him to calm down? – Charity G., Albany, New York

DEAR CHARITY: An energetic dog can be frustrating to handle, but don’t lose hope. You can work with Chip to improve his behavior.
First, order Chip a properly sized halter online, and use this on walks. A halter will spread out the contact points across the stronger parts of his little body. This will prevent injury when Chip pulls against the leash. Halters also are much more comfortable; the uncomfortable collar may be stressing him out.

I’d like you to look up a dog trainer in your area who specializes in small dogs, who can be little tornados on a good day. Many trainers are adapting their lessons to an online format, so you can meet with them at home over a conferencing app like Zoom or Google Meet.
While you’re waiting for that first session, start working on reinforcing Chip’s basic behavioral training. Work with him at home on the commands “come,” “sit,” “stay” and “lie down.” During walks, work with him on “heel,” “sit” and “stay.” These training sessions also will help Chip work off some of that energy, and he’ll be thrilled with all the attention he’s getting, too.

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