Did your dog tell you about the three leashes? She didn't? Most dogs think humans intuitively know about the three leashes, just like we humans think dogs are born inherently understanding the word "sit". Please allow me to teach you about the three leashes on your dog's behalf. 

Physical Leash

Everyone knows about the physical leash. This leash keeps your dog with you and away from others. 

Make sure your dog's physical leash weighs as little as necessary to keep your dog safe. A heavy leash may be aversive to your dog and affect walking. This is equivalent to wearing a heavy necklace or earrings. You can't wait to take them off! 

Consider the length of the leash. Keep your dog close to you in busy environments as needed. Otherwise, give your dog more leash. Believe it or not, giving your dog more leash may decrease pulling on leash! When you were a child and your parent or guardian grabbed your hand to pull you close, what did you do? You stood still for a moment and then tried to squirm away! Most of us walk too slowly for our dog's natural gait. Using a longer leash (7-10 feet) allows them to trot at their natural pace without pulling your shoulder out of its socket.

Verbal Leash

Think of loose leash walking like a conversation with your dog. Both ends of the leash have something to say. Use your words to engage your dog during your walk. Your words are your verbal leash. If your dog is approaching the end of his leash, say his name to encourage engagement and prevent pulling. After he looks at you, reward him by walking quickly to that patch of grass he wants to sniff. 

Need to change directions? Use your verbal leash to let your dog know you're turning. Sure, you can yank on the physical leash, but saying "this way" to have your dog change direction is much more elegant and humane. 

Invisible Leash

This is a leash that most dogs have and few people know about. Since dogs (hopefully) associate hands with good things like dispensing treats and giving rubs, they take great interest in hands. Here's how to find the invisible leash. Touch your fingertips to your thumb. Do this with both hands and put your hands together. Now place both hands in front of your dog's nose. Walk backwards and pull your hands to your knees. Think nose to knees as you back up. Stop walking, stand up straight, and feed your dog when she's right in front of you. 

I've used an invisible leash to move physically unleashed dogs away from distractions. You can also use the invisible leash to move your physically leashed dog away from a distraction. Tuck a treat into your pocket and go try the invisible leash right now! 

So there you have it. Now you can prove to your dog that you know about the three leashes. Remember, no matter the type of leash you are using (physical, verbal, or invisible), it's a conversation at both ends of the leash.