Walk this way?

Before I get to the topic, I have to blame you for the toys purchased last night. The furgirls are now Wubba fans, although they've already chewed off the little seam at the tippy-top. I'm still looking for a nearly indestructible, not rock-hard toy for Sissy, who loves chewing up plastic (think yogurt cups) and cardboard more than anything in the world.

Now, I'm also curious about how you and your pack walk, especially on leashes. Growing up, I had this saint of a lab. She was trained to a choke collar (the favored method of the era), and once her puppyhood was behind her, she never pulled again. My boy dogs were another story, and before their deaths, I think we owned at least one of every single style of harness out there. Fred preferred a roman harness, and Mugsy needed a step-in, to reduce the pressure on his collapsed trachea.

And yes, we're a Lupine family, thanks to Nichole's nudges and Sissy's need to gnaw Gretchen's first harness off of her the second time Gretchen wore it. Love that guarantee. Pet Expectations has a special relationship with Lupine, so it's a great resource too!

With Sissy came all kinds of challenges, and our basic obedience instructor introduced us to the Easy Walker. It's the only way the girl will lead without jerking and pulling and generally being annoying. Gretchen did well with a collar only up until a few weeks ago (around 10 months if it matters?) and I bought her first Easy Walker last night too.

We also use retractable leashes when we're not training. For training, I use Lupine 4' leashes with the comfort handle. And in case you're wondering, Sissy is a 45 lb., 21 month old basset, and Gretchen is a petite 12 lb., almost 11 month old Jack Russell Terrier.