- Praise your dog whenever he's doing what you want him to do, whether it's a smooth forward walk, a sit, a stay, or any other command. Let your pup know you are happy with what he's doing, to build his confidence. Touch can be an effective means of praise, too, with a pat on the head or stroke of the ear.
- Keep a loose leash; this not only allows for quick and effective leash corrections but also puts the pup in the position of having to decide how to behave, enabling you to teach her to behave appropriately. It's OK for the pup to pull slightly on a forward walk, but she should not be choking or dragging you down the street. Read more about this in a great Blue Coat Journal post from SEGD trainer Karen Mersereau.
- Walk with your pup moving along the left side of the sidewalk.
- Stop at all street crossings, wait (with the pup standing), then say "Forward" and proceed; do not stop on the other side of the street.
If you remember to do these things, don't forget to praise yourself. Good job!
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