Training Walk: Embracing the Lead for Safety and Comfort

This past week, we embarked on a picturesque training walk in the stunning South Downs area, following a route that took us through Lullington Heath National Nature Reserve, Friston Forest, and the serene coastal views near Exceat. The walk served as a perfect opportunity to reinforce the idea that it's absolutely okay for your dog to stay on the lead — and that, sometimes, being on the lead can actually make your dog feel safer.

The Route

The circular route began at Exceat and meandered through the peaceful hamlet of Litlington, up to the heathland of Lullington, and through the beautiful wooded paths of Friston Forest. The terrain varied from wide open spaces with breathtaking views of the Seven Sisters cliffs to enclosed trails in the forest, providing a mix of environments for training and bonding.

This walk isn't just about the stunning scenery, though. It's also a great place to work on your dog's confidence, especially in areas where there may be distractions like other walkers, cyclists, or wildlife.

Gatsby’s Training Journey

Gatsby, our lovable and sometimes nervous companion, joined us for this walk. As a dog who feels uneasy around other dogs, we made the conscious decision to keep him on the lead for the entire route. And you know what? He loved it.

By staying on the lead, Gatsby had the freedom to explore within a safe boundary, giving him the reassurance that we were always nearby. Whether it was stopping to sniff the grass on the heath, admiring the view near the cliffs, or calmly walking past other dogs, the lead became his anchor of security rather than a restriction.

Why It’s Okay to Keep Your Dog on the Lead

Some people feel pressured to let their dog off the lead to "let them have fun," but it's important to remember that every dog is different. For some, being off the lead can be overwhelming, especially if they're nervous or reactive.

Here are a few benefits of keeping your dog on the lead:

1. Safety: Busy paths, wildlife, or cliff edges (like those near the Seven Sisters) can be dangerous. A lead ensures your dog stays safe and under control.

2. Confidence Building: For dogs like Gatsby, the lead acts as a security blanket, giving them the confidence to face situations they might otherwise find stressful.

3. Strengthening the Bond: Walking on the lead means your dog looks to you for guidance and reassurance, helping to build trust and communication between you.

4. Positive Training Opportunities: On-lead walks allow you to reinforce good behaviors, like loose-lead walking or ignoring distractions, in a controlled environment.

Highlights of the Walk

One of the standout moments was when we reached the open fields near the cliffs. While the view was breathtaking, the wind was strong, and there were several other dogs running around. Instead of feeling the pressure to let Gatsby join in, we focused on him. With a relaxed leash and some tasty treats, he confidently watched the world go by, happy and content.

Another memorable moment was strolling through Friston Forest. The dappled sunlight filtering through the trees made for a calming atmosphere, and Gatsby’s wagging tail showed he was enjoying the adventure at his own pace.

Final Thoughts

This training walk reinforced an important lesson: it’s okay to do what’s best for your dog. Whether that means keeping them on the lead or taking things slower, what matters most is that they feel safe, loved, and happy.

So, the next time you plan a walk with your dog, don’t feel pressured to let them off the lead just because it’s what others are doing. Every dog is unique, and embracing what works for them will lead to more enjoyable and stress-free adventures for both of you.

Have you had similar experiences with your dog on walks? Please get in touch for a free consultation!

Happy walking! 🐾