Peter
I am starting to believe that because each dog is very different, whatever the general training guideline is - it doesn't fit every dog ! I must admit I gave up on the training book sometime ago. However, I do on occasions walk a large working dog, along with my small Heinz 57. Certainly as you say, you do need to try and remain the "leader" not the follower. I would recommend a short leash, so he has to walk definitely no further ahead than yourself. Have you tried to get the dog to listen to you when walking - they don't always look up at you, but you can tell they are listening by their actions. As soon as he tries to get in front, with a sharp short tug to the side of him pull him back in line with yourself and use your command, heel or whatever. Depending on how bad he is also you can try and stop walking until the dog has calmed down a little, then move on when you are ready, so effectively he's not really gaining a lot of ground out of trying to pull you around.
Hope this is of help.
Wendy
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