A terrier's reaction time is so quick and they are so near the floor that a tab lead does not provide a safe, easy way of controlling them. If the dog cannot slip its collar, a handle stiched to the top or a leash which the dog always trails behind it will give control. Terriers are very good at slipping their collars and these dogs will have to wear a harness. The ones sold as car restraints already have a loop on the back or one can be sewn on.
Another difficulty arising from a terrier's quick reaction time is that it has bitten before you have time to grab the harness. Always carry with you a plastic lemon juice container and as the dog lunges towards you direct a squirt of juice into its mouth (not eyes) accompanied by a loud "No". Drag the dog by the harness to a dog crate and shut it in for a considerable time. When letting it out, do not engage in a "lets be friends again" show of affection.
Controlling the dog in this way, shows the dog your dominant position in the pack, as when he goes to bite you he is punished (lemon juice and isolation) and is unable to continue his aggression towards you. Further display your dominance by growling through clenched teeth if the dog starts to do anything wrong, followed by crating. If the dog barks in the crate, growl and give a squirt of juice into the mouth then leave. Correction of the dog will be frequent in the beginning but if you react consistently in this manner the dog will learn to respect you and the attempts to bite will cease. If this has not occurred after two months, you have either not been using the corrections firmly and consistently enough or the dog is so savage that you should consider a replacement.
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