How to Leash Train Your Puppy
Walking your new puppy on a leash can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. With a bit of patience and practice, you’ll get there. Making sure both you and your puppy are comfortable using a leash is essential to a safe outdoor experience.
We’ve compiled some tips and tricks to help you and your new pup to conquer leash training:
The Right Kind of Leash to Use
It’s important to choose the right leash. Leashes come in a variety of styles and materials, so it’s best to figure out which one is right for you before buying one.
- Don’t use a retractable leash. These are dangerous because they allow too much freedom, making it easier for your pup to get away from you and run into danger.
- Don’t use a choke collar or harness that attaches around the dog’s neck or chest area—these can cause injury or discomfort over time.
- Don’t use a head halter; these work similarly to collars but aren’t as safe or comfortable as other leashes because they put pressure on your puppy’s face when he pulls back against them.
How to Train Puppies to Walk on a Leash
Practice Using a Leash Inside
When practicing leash training with your puppy, it’s important to do so in a safe area, whether inside or in a secure outdoor area.
We suggest practicing using a leash inside first. This way, if anything happens while you’re walking outside with your puppy on a leash (like if he starts pulling), there won’t be any surprises when he gets used to being leashed and goes out into public spaces.
To get started with leash training:
- With an excited voice, say, “Let’s go!” as soon as you pick up the leash in one hand and hold onto it loosely while offering treats from your other hand.
- Once he follows behind you willingly without any hesitation or resistance, start moving around slowly together on a short walk indoors or outside; make sure that treats are available throughout this time.
Start Small
It’s important to start with short walks and work your way up over time. Be patient, and don’t push them too hard. If they resist, stop and try another day again.
For example, if you’re going for a walk around the block on a leash, let them wander around off-leash in the house first. Then take their leashes out of their mouth and hold onto one end while they explore an area where they haven’t been before—such as a new room or yard. This will help them get used to having something attached to their neck without having any tension on it yet.
What to Do If Your Puppy Pulls on Their Leash
If your puppy pulls on their leash, there are a few things you can do to help them stop:
- Stand very still and refuse to move until your dog comes back to you.
- Do not yank or jerk the leash.
- Redirect their attention to you.
Remember, patience is key when training your pup to walk well on a leash. It may take some time for them to get used to wearing one and feeling the pressure around their neck. However, once they do, it will be worth all the hard work!
