Each of us knows them or maybe even has one: the linen rambo. Without a leash when running free, he seems like the most compatible and social dog you know.
But the dog bullies on the leash when he sees other dogs.
Leash aggression is spoken of here. This form of aggression can have different causes. So what’s behind it?
What are the reasons for a dog to bully on a leash?
The reasons why a dog becomes a leash rambo are numerous Territorial behavior, insecurity/fear, sexual motivation and resource defence.
Incidentally, the other end of the leash – i.e. the human – contributes a large part to the behavior of leash aggression.
Good to know:
In the rarest of cases, the leash rambo is really so aggressive that it would maul the other dog if it were to get close.
In order to structure the training appropriately for your line troller, it is important to know what the exact reason is.
Bad socialization
Unfortunately, the dog did not learn how to behave towards other dogs when it was a puppy. He lacks the knowledge of how communicate with other dogs can.
Of course, this also brings with it a lot of uncertainty, if not fear, and many dogs take the motto «attack is the best defense».
Bad experiences
Maybe your dog attacked by another dog and couldn’t get out of the situation. The leash prevented him from doing so.
In order not to let this situation arise on the leash in the first place, he immediately goes into «attack mode».
individual distance
Dogs have that too need for distance. Just like you don’t like some people, neither does your dog.
Because of the leash he cannot get his individual distance to other dogs.
Very often, the dog owner also shortens the leash a little when another dog appears on the horizon.
In addition, the other dog also approaches your dog head-on. That means attack for him.
He can’t go. And that’s exactly when it happens: the dog mobs on the leash.
sexual motivation
This behavior is particularly evident in uncastrated males and dominant females. Here the possible competitor is to be expelled.
If the leash is on the dog, the dog cannot drive away its competitor.
In addition to bullying, excessive marking and a stiff posture with a raised tail are often seen.
territorial behavior
This is exhibited by very dominant dogs who feel they need to monitor everything in their territory.
Every dog needs to be sniffed. Any game must be stopped if the dog does not like it.
This dog is a real control freak!
But the leash now prevents him from controlling exactly. Out of sheer frustration, he then turns into a linen rambo.
resource defense
Do you have your favorite toy with you or your absolute favorite treats? some dogs think to defend this important resource for him – loudly!
You as a dog owner are also a resource. A particularly important one even for your dog.
If you show insecurity and/or a lack of consistency, i.e. you are not the sovereign leader of the pack, your dog will take over this role and defend you.
mixed forms/habit
It is also possible that the linen rambo shows its line aggression for a number of reasons. Here it is particularly difficult to find the first trigger.
Another possibility is that your dog bullying on a leash simply ritualized has.
He has been able to act out this behavior for a very long time and now sees a conspecific and only thinks «Randale!».
What training methods are there to reduce or eliminate bullying on a leash?
Especially when training with your “Leash Pöbler” it’s all about researching the causes, trust, safety and consistency.
The dog needs to see you as the pack leader, guiding them safely through all canine encounters and territories.
Also, he needs to know that you are the best resource manager.
With a puppy you should start right away with proper socialization so that the little dog knows that many dogs are friends.
But always allow your dog to keep his individual distance. If you notice your dog is not in a good mood, give it a wide berth.
There is a training method that works very well for particularly stubborn leash mobs. We would like to explain them to you here in a step-by-step guide.
1. Train walking on the leash
Often the «heel» is not right and the line is permanently under tension.
Train this in the yard or when there are no other dogs around. During this time, avoid encounters with other dogs if possible.
2. Find out what your dog will drop everything for
Is there a favorite treat or toy that makes your leash moaner forget about everything else? Wonderful!
Work closely with it to work out an abort command.
3. Abort command
This will help you get your dog out of the other dog’s fixation. If he responds to the command, there is a reward.
The command can be «no,» «sit,» «paw,» or whatever works well. It can also be fetching your favorite toy.
4. Slowly reduce distance
If the demolition squad is at home, you can work on gradually approaching other dogs. Always using the abort command.
Work your way from far distance to nearer. Go at the dog’s pace. First the further distance must sit before the next shorter distance is taken.
5. Avoid face-to-face encounters
Always make sure your dog has enough space. Here you can also simply take a bend or disappear into a side path.
Avoid unwanted encounters by changing directions.
As a dog owner, how can I improve my reaction to my dog being bullied while on a leash?
What you need when training your leash pöbler is Calmness, timing, consistency and patience.
The dog bullies on the leash and you yell at him? Then he is only egged on or maybe afraid of you.
Just keep walking without comment if your dog is nagging on the leash.
Always be consistent with leash handling and your commands. Never make an exception, even if your dog looks cute.
Timing of the demolition command and praise are important. If your dog has already jumped on the leash, you no longer need your command. If he responds to the command, praise him.
And have patience! The longer your dog has been a leash rambo, the longer it takes to train him to break the habit. Don’t let setbacks discourage you.
Conclusion
The reasons why your dog is a leash moaner are totally different. Find out what drives your dog up the wall.
And then train calmly and consistently with your dog. If you don’t dare to do it on your own, get an experienced dog trainer to help you.
And don’t be discouraged if your leash bug isn’t cured within a few days.
Do you have a linen rambo? What was your experience in training with him? Let us know.