by Meadow Lark

Created on: December 18, 2008   Last Updated: April 05, 2010

Most dogs have an innate desire to run and jump.  There are many pet owners who do not have that same desire.  In fact, if you have ever experienced a broken leg or have a long term disability, you may think it might be impossible to train an energetic dog.  Hopefully, after you have read this article, you will realize you have more tools available to you than you may realize.

There are several advantages you have.  One of the best advantages is that your dog wants to be your friend.  He truly wants to please you.  Chances are that you want to befriend your dog, or you would not have taken him in your home.  Hitting a dog is not a good way to train him or anyone else.  It is a curiosity to many seasoned dog trainers to watch new owners hit their dog when it finally responds to the "come" command.  I don't know about you, but if someone wanted to be my friend or my teacher, I would turn and run the other way if they told me to come and visit, then hit me over the head when I took them up on their offer. 

At this writing, I have three dogs and I am disabled.  Nothing about my life is very planned, including possessing three dogs or having multiple sclerosis.  I am very fortunate to have a supportive family, several dog toys, a fairly large back yard and numerous glow in the dark balls.  If I can work with two older dogs and one puppy who is very energetic, you can, too.  

Training is essential for you and your dog.  If you have a Pet Smart anywhere near your house, it would be well worth it to you to attend their classes.  Pet Smart also has many tools that would be helpful to you.  Easy Harness is a wonderful product that simply goes over your dogs head and gives you much more control since the leash is attached to the front of the harness, which means your dog has to follow you.  This, my friends, is a wonderful thing, whether you have a disability or not.  There is also another tool called a halti.  The manufacturers include a dvd with some haltis.  It is well worth your time to learn how to use the halti.  When used consistently and correctly, you and your dog will enjoy many roads together.  Both of these items work much better than choke collars.

Before going on walks, it is extremely helpful to throw the ball several times in the back yard and let the dog do the running and jumping.  They love it, and you will, too, because they will be much more appreciative of a calm walk with you afterwards.  The dog is much less likely to fight having an Easy Harness or halti placed on him since he has chased a ball or frisbee numerous times.  Of course, throwing in a good word or two like, "good boy" helps the dog enjoy the play time even more.  In fact, if you have a treat in your pocket, it will really add some incentive for the dog to learn to give the ball back to you.

Most dogs are by nature loyal to their masters. After all, they survive because we feed and care for them.  It is every pet owner's responsibility to not only feed and care for the animal but to train it, not by hitting or severe scolding, but by reminding the animal that you are loyal to it, as well.

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