Keeping your dog tied nearby actually gives her more freedom and can strengthen the connection you
have with her.
By Rolan Tripp, D.V.M.
"Close tethering" does not mean tying your dog outside for hours. That would only stir up anxiety,
fear, and even aggression. In fact, you should never leave your dog tied up for a long period.
In contrast, close tethering is a safe, useful technique that teaches your dog to be comfortable
and even to enjoy being tied up for short periods. A close tether is a two- to three-foot lead.
Think of it as the tie that binds.
Being close tether trained means your dog will be able to accompany you to more places; you can
"park" her knowing she won't fuss or bother anyone. This training benefits your dog greatly
because she gets to please you, be near you, and see you clearly as the leader of the pack -
an authoritative owner is deeply reassuring to a dog.
Getting Hitched
The first step is to purchase the right tool for the job. To prevent your dog from getting
tangled, the tether should be short. Ideally, it'll have a strong clip on each end. These
fasteners enable you to quickly attach the tether from the collar to any solid object. It can
also be used in the car with a dog seat belt.
Start by tethering your dog where you can be close to her. Tether her to your chair when
you're reading, watching TV, or working at your desk. If she whimpers or fusses, and you
are in the process of housetraining her, see if she needs to go out. If you're confident
she doesn't, literally turn your back on her fussing. When she's quiet, praise her with
"good quiet!"
Note: If all she wants is attention, it is imperative that you ignore her while she cries
or whines. If you give in, she'll continue to cry and whine whenever she wants you - or
anything else.
Here are eight great reasons to tether-train your dog:
1. Better bonding. If your dog is overly independent and doesn't recognize your leadership,
an excellent bonding exercise is to tether her next to you every possible minute when
you're home. If you have trouble finding an object to tie her to, attach the tether to
your belt or ankle. This is known as "umbilical cording."
2. A feeling of safety. Close tether training gives a fearful dog the security of knowing
where she belongs. She'll also adapt more easily to new environments since she'll
"know the ropes."
3. Easier housetraining.. Dogs will avoid eliminating in their immediate surroundings,
so tether-training can help you with housebreaking. Take your dog out regularly, and
praise her lavishly for going in a sanctioned spot. If she doesn't do her business,
return her to the tether and praise her for resting quietly.
4. A calming effect. Inside your car or at home, tethering will settle a hyperactive dog.
If your dog gets especially wild around guests, designate a spot as hers and tether her
there when you entertain. Set up a comfy bed there, so she can rest comfortably.
5. Soothing separation anxiety. If your dog gets upset when you leave or aren't nearby,
close tethering is a useful technique. Gradually increase the time you keep her
tethered, by just a minute or so each time and never so long that she shows signs
of anxiety. Then tether her farther from you, gradually increasing the distance until
you're out of her sight. Do this incrementally, so she's always comfortable (otherwise
you could make the problem worse). When you need to go out, untie her, but ignore her
when you leave and for a few minutes after you arrive. Making a fuss will undo this
"independence training."
6. No more demolition dog. If your dog chews your shoes or digs up your flowers, tethering
can limit her ability to destroy your possessions. While she's tethered, give her a
Kong filled with goodies or a "chew puzzle" (another kind of chew toy with food inside).
If you think separation anxiety might be causing the destructive behavior and close
tethering isn't helping, consult a professional behaviorist.
7. You're the boss. If your dog behaves aggressively, give her a calming "time-out" by
tethering her near you for five to 10 minutes. By immediately establishing your
leadership, tethering dispels her confusion over her status in the household hierarchy.
If necessary, have your dog drag a leash from her collar, so you can control any
volatile situation.
8. A member of society. You can use the tether as part of a socialization program. It's a
way to allow your dog to see and be involved in people's activities without being the
center of attention. Remember, a dog who can be peacefully tethered possesses a skill
that'll prove handy in countless situations over her life.