Shelter dog question

[Guest Anonymous]

I am currently a volunteer at the humane society in my area and I need some advice about a dog that I'm worried about. She is a english pointer that doesn't seem to understand how to go for a walk. I understand enough about dogs (have my own) to know that she has obviously not been walked much. She hasn't been in the shelter that long, but long enough to feel really comfortable with me in her run, but can't stand to be put on a leash. When I do get her on one, and spend ample time out in the fields with her, she just can't relax. She tries to bolt, not walk, and doesn't "lap up" the human contact like most shelter dogs. I am really working with her, so that she can be adopted but she won't be if I can't get her comfortable with a leash/walk. Any advice would be so greatly appreciated...!

[DogPaddle]

Is there a fenced area you can play offlead?

You could start by using a very long lead that the dog can be on but feel more free. Also prior to ever using the lead leave it clipped to the crate so it is not a foriegn item.
Sometimes come up to the dog, treat, clip on lead, treat and praise, unclip lead.
Maybe approach the dog fairly excited telling him how great this is going to be, apply the long lead, praise and maybe treat any occurance of decent leash behaviour, find good games to play on lead. Alternate playing on lead and off in a secure fenced area outdoors.