Course Details
3 WEEK CLASS - A calm connected walk starts with clear communication. In this class, we teach dogs how to respond positively to gentle leash pressure and pair that skill with circle walking to create smoother, more enjoyable outings for both ends of the leash.
We begin by conditioning leash pressure as useful information—not something to fight against. By pairing light pressure with rewards, dogs learn that giving to the leash is the right answer. As their understanding grows, we layer in verbal cues to make the communication even clearer.
Circle walking takes inspiration from horse training, where handlers use circles to regain focus, manage arousal, and help animals approach or retreat from something that worries them. Tight circles help an over‑aroused dog reset; larger circles build rhythm,connection, and forward movement. This same approach-and-retreat pattern gives dogsa safe way to move toward a trigger, then arc away to regain distance without
escalating.
For fearful or anxious dogs, circling keeps them under threshold and teaches them how to turn away instead of reacting. For frustrated or over‑excited dogs, it provides structure, movement, and a clear alternative behavior. And for dogs who aren’t food‑motivated—or won’t eat in distracting environments—this method offers a powerful non‑food tool for loose‑leash walking.
By blending leash‑pressure conditioning with purposeful circling, you’ll build trust, improve communication, and help your dog understand that you can guide them through challenging moments with confidence and clarity.
Teaching Approach:
Instructor: Karen Deeds, CDBC Karen Deeds, is a Certified Dog Behavior Consultant through the International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants (IAABC). She is the co-owner of Canine Connection in Ft. Worth, TX with her husband, Bob Deeds, a retired Federal K9 Handler on Texas Task Force I....(Click here for full bio and to view Karen's upcoming courses)
