Leash Training Your Puppy

Leash training your puppy will teach her how to walk politely by your side without pulling. It makes walking your dog a pleasure instead of a test of strength.

STEP 1 – Start Without the Leash

You can start training your puppy on a leash on short walks as early as 6 to 7 weeks of age. Keep the sessions short. Allow your pet to explore and then call his attention to have him come closer. When he does, reward him with praise and a treat.

Your puppy will likely start to get the idea and begin to follow you to get more treats. Since his attention span will be short, release your pup and let him explore again.

STEP 2 – Train in Puppy’s Familiar Area

It should be easy to get your puppy to walk beside you since she is used to getting a treat when she comes. Staying with you will become routine.Start the training in an area (such as your own backyard) that the pup is already familiar with. A new location offers too many tempting smells and different things to explore.

STEP 3 – “Let’s Go” Command

While your dog is on the leash, back away, bend down, and hold out a treat. Call your puppy with a, “Let’s Go” command. When she comes, give her a treat and praise her. Do this a few times so that she relates “Let’s Go” to come and get a treat.

STEP 4 – Start Walking

Give the “Let’s Go” command and walk a few paces with your puppy. If your dog walks with you, reward and praise her. If she resists and does not follow you – no treat. Give the command and start walking again. When you pup follows, reward and treat.Soon your puppy will be walking beside you on a leash and not ever realize it!

Teaching your puppy can be enjoyable for both and your dog if done with short training sessions. Remember, treats are only rewarded for the correct behavior.

For complete information see Dove’s lesson on Loose Leash Walking. To be sure to get the right fit for your dog’s collar and more see Dove’s Lesson on Collars, Harnesses. and Leashes.