Recently, a subscriber on our YouTube channel commented disliking long lines on grounds that they could potentially be dangerous and cause accidents. This is certainly true of any tool but we can see how a long line, if not used properly, could result in incidents and injuries. The idea of the long line is that we give the dog length when it is safe and appropriate to do so, particularly when we’re playing Way of Life games.
When walking, the idea is for the line to maintain contact with the ground as much as possible. I don’t know what it is, but something happens energetically when the dog can feel the line on the ground.
As soon as the line starts to go airborne, i.e. get off the ground, this is our cue to work on bringing the line back into contact with the ground. It is alright to let the dog forge ahead somewhat but don’t teach them to get lost in their world out there ahead of you, work on walking side by side as well…
–> Take turns
–> Change directions
–> Stop and wait out your dog to circle back
–> Crouch down and call your dog
–> Slow down and wait for your dog to realize your change of pace
These are ways to work on keeping that long line hitting the ground and make sure especially with Stage 1 dogs to keep this light and fun.