Quote Originally Posted by lizbud
... the first thing you need to get across
to a full grown Boxer, is that you control the dog's movements and not the
other way around. Your first aim(with a strong breed) is to gain control on
the walk. Once a dog understands you are the "director", the leash can be
loosened for a more casual style of walking.
Yes, this was what I was trying to say! We have only had Dot (16 month boxer/bulldog/hound/?? mix, 50#) for a week, so I have limited experience. It is not my plan for her to have to walk head up all the time. I needed to get some control, and then we could gradually train her to a slack lead.

It was not enjoyable for either of us, when I was being yanked along and she was gagging and choking the whole way. Also with the high collar, she holds her head up. I do not force it up. The short lead is firm so I will maintain control if she tries to start pulling again.

I was just trying to offer a suggestion to the OP that had worked for us, not start a debate on the merits of Cesar's way.

Best of luck!