I am lucky to live in rural Virginia. I have several places I can take my dogs to let them off the leash. Both of them have learned by constant positive reinforcement to come back to me on command. It does not work to scold or fuss at your dog. Ignore all bad behavior. Reward all good behavior. The reward does not have to be tangible. Just an encouraging "good girl!" is enough. I would not have believed it if I had not practiced it myself.
I am retired and have a young dog that I walk three to four times per day. Some walks for potty and some to run errands in town and everyday we drive to some beautiful walking trails where my dog is off leash and he loves for me to kick or throw his ball. He loves his walks and I have found that they have improved my health significantly. Walking is both enjoyable and brings with it many health benefits to the human as well. I am so grateful my dog showed me this and our walking partnership is one of the most valuable attributes of our relationship. He is in super shape himself too!
I am lucky to live in rural Virginia. I have several places I can take my dogs to let them off the leash. Both of them have learned by constant positive reinforcement to come back to me on command. It does not work to scold or fuss at your dog. Ignore all bad behavior. Reward all good behavior. The reward does not have to be tangible. Just an encouraging "good girl!" is enough. I would not have believed it if I had not practiced it myself.
I am retired and have a young dog that I walk three to four times per day. Some walks for potty and some to run errands in town and everyday we drive to some beautiful walking trails where my dog is off leash and he loves for me to kick or throw his ball. He loves his walks and I have found that they have improved my health significantly. Walking is both enjoyable and brings with it many health benefits to the human as well. I am so grateful my dog showed me this and our walking partnership is one of the most valuable attributes of our relationship. He is in super shape himself too!