TRAINING MODE / SNIFF MODE
You do not need to turn every minute of every walk into a training session.
That gets pretty tedious for everyone involved, and your dog also needs time to sniff, explore and generally get on with being a dog.
That’s why I use two different modes.
The difference is made clear by where the lead is attached.
SNIFF MODE
In Sniff Mode, the lead is attached to the back of the harness.
This is your dog’s downtime. They can sniff, explore and take in the environment without being expected to stay beside you in a training position.
TRAINING MODE
In Training Mode, the lead is attached to the flat collar.
Over time, this becomes the cue that you’re now working together.
Training Mode is short and focused. You’re asking for attention and practising the lead-walking skills you’re teaching.
Back of harness = Sniff Mode
Flat collar = Training Mode
The point is not that one mode is “good” and the other is “bad”.
They are simply two different contexts, made clear by the different lead attachment.
And the aim is not to have your dog walking beside you for the whole walk.
You’re giving them clear periods of training, alongside genuine time to sniff, explore and enjoy being a dog.