EPISODE 28
How and When to Let Your Dog Off-Leash
Every dog owner fantasizes about itâthose carefree, leash-free walks where your dog stays close, checks in often, and comes back the moment you call. But how do you know if your dog is truly ready for that kind of freedom? In this episode of Canine Master Radio, Chris Onthank and trainer Jaimee Kelsey break down the key ingredients to safe off-leash adventures. From mastering recall to reading tricky situations, theyâll help you decide whenâand ifâyour dog is ready to ditch the leash.
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Introduction
Spring is here, and with the warmer weather comes the urge to get outside and enjoy more freedom with our dogs. But one question that trainers hear again and again is: âCan I trust my dog off-leash?â Itâs a dream for many dog ownersâto hike, walk, or play at the park without worrying about a leash. But the reality is, letting your dog off-leash is always a calculated risk, and itâs not something to rush into.
In this episode of Canine Master Radio on Pet Life Radio, host Chris Onthank teams up with Jaimee Kelsey, Director of Training at Dog Gone Smart in Norwalk, Connecticut, to discuss what it really takes to safely and successfully enjoy off-leash freedom. They cover everything from the importance of a strong recall, to building a leadership-based relationship, to navigating tricky situations like off-leash dogs running up to yours.
Whether youâre dreaming of peaceful walks or tackling reactivity issues, this episode offers practical, real-world advice to help set you and your dog up for successâon and off the leash.
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Topics Discussed:
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Off-Leash is a Calculated Risk
Even the best-trained dogs can be unpredictable. Safety must always come first. -
Establishing the proper relationship and "pack dynamic" between the dog and owner, with the owner as the leader.
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Training the dog to follow the owner's lead through commands like "let's walk" rather than using a strict "heel" position.
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Importance of a reliable recall before attempting off-leash work.
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Use of long leashes to provide a safety net during off-leash training.
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Avoiding the use of electric shock collars, which can be confusing and damaging for dogs.
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Strategies for dealing with off-leash dogs approaching a leashed dog, such as putting the dog behind the owner, using treats to distract, and communicating with the other owner.
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Importance of respecting leash laws and using designated off-leash areas.
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Have Questions for Chris?
Take advantage of "Ask the Canine Master" where you can submit questions, videos and/or photos to Chris. He will do his very best to answer them for you. Become part of the show! Select questions will be answered during one of the upcoming broadcasts.
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