The Training Tether

A traing tether is a tempory management and training tool.  It can be used to help prevent problems with behavior.  The tether can help get your dog used to being with you without having to be the center of attention.  Note that you never want to leave a dog alone while tethered.  Read on and notice the links which I've included for your browsing.

So, let's get started...

A tether should be a plastic coated wire cable about 3 feet long (short enough so that he won't get tangled in it) with a snap on each end.  You can attach the cable to heavy furniture, etc but the best idea is to place an eyebolt secured into the wall.  Attach the other end of the cable to your dogs buckle collar.  Please don't use choke chains, prong collars or head halters when using the tethering technique.

The tether spot should be a happy place where he is close to you so put a rug down for him and even his favorite chew toy.  (you don't want to use a ball that can roll out of range).

To get your dog used to the tether, just start by putting him on the tether for about 5 - 10 minutes a couple of times a day.  He'll appreciate reward and attention afterward.  Then slowly vary the time, mixing short sessions with ones a little longer.

If he barks, etc while on the tether, leave the room until he is quiet.  Then return and reward his quiet behavior.  The idea here is to ignore unacceptable behavior and reward calm behavior with praise. 

You'll have much better success if you don't allow children or other pets to bother your dog when he is on the training tether.

Got a jumping dog?  If your dog jumps up on guests when they arrive, tether him before the guests get there.  Then after everyone is seated and the dog is more calm, allow him to meet everyone.

There are many good ways to use the tether as a training tool but the best collection of training methods I've seen is at 

sit-stay-fetch

I recommend that you go there and check it out. 

This is a fairly simple and effective training tool for your dog.  Just be sure to be close by when he's tethered so he will see that you're there and not feel abandoned.  Also, remember this is for a short time and used as a training tool. 

Please visit some of my other Squidoo lenses for more dog training tips. 

Enjoy your dog !!

Hans Georges

"Be Your Dog's Best Friend" 

house training a puppy

dog_behavior_problem_solver