
How Should I Start Leash Training My Puppy?
Leash training is an important skill for puppies to learn. Not only does it ensure their safety when outside, but it also helps them to develop good behavior habits. However, leash training can be a difficult and frustrating process for both the puppy and the owner. Here are some effective techniques for leash training a puppy.
– 1. Start with a lightweight leash and collar that won’t weigh your puppy down or restrict their movements.
– 2. Wait until your puppy is tired or half a sleep to put the leash on. While your puppy is still calm take it off. This is a very effective way to tell your puppy that the leash means nothing; Is not a chew toy, I’m not going to pull you or restrain you etc. That way they won’t fight it.
– 3. Put the leash on your puppy while your are training. That way your puppy will learn to do things on leash without any pulling. Reward and lure your puppy with treats, while wearing the leash. Start with short training sessions. 10-15 minutes. Gradually increase the length of the training sessions as your puppy becomes more comfortable on the leash.
– 4. Walk at a steady and slow pace when walking your puppy on the leash. Why slow? Because you walking at normal pace means your puppy is probably running. Once your puppy grows he/she is going to think that is normal to run on a walk. Your grown up dog running is not going to be you walking at a normal pace. Thinks ahead!
– 5. Don’t pull your puppy along or let them pull you. Learn Leash Communication skills.
– 6. Always put the leash on while your puppy is calm. Don’t get your puppy excited while working on leash manners, if not your puppy will start bitting and playing with the leash. Excitement and leash are like oil and water. It’s a bad mix. Remember this for the rest of your dog’s life. If your dog is on leash, your dog should be calm unless you have a working dog.
Leash training is a vital skill for puppies and adult dogs to learn, since we need to use a leash by law. By using positive reinforcement, starting with short training sessions, and being patient and consistent, you can help your puppy develop good leash behavior habits that will last a lifetime.
© Gabriel Riesco, Pawmos Dog Training LLC | All Rights Reserved May 2023