Leash Training a Puppy

Leash Training a Puppy

Leash training is an essential part of puppyhood. It allows you to take your furry friend on walks, explore the world together, and ensure their safety during outings. Here's a step-by-step guide to leash train your puppy:

Getting Started:

• Introduce the Collar or Harness: Let your pup wear their collar or harness for short periods indoors at first. Pair it with playtime and treats to create a positive association.
• Leash familiarization: Let your puppy drag the leash around the house while supervised. This helps them get used to the feel of it.

Learning the Basics:

• The Power of Treats: Use high-value treats to lure your puppy into following you on the leash. Reward them for staying near your side and walking calmly.
• Marker Words: Clicker training is a common method. Click the clicker the moment your puppy shows the desired behavior (e.g., walking beside you) and then reward with a treat.
• Stop Pulling: If your puppy pulls, stop walking. Stand still until the leash becomes slack. Then, lure them back to your side with treats and resume walking.

Practice Makes Perfect:

• Short Sessions: Keep training sessions short and positive, especially in the beginning. Puppies have short attention spans.
• Graduate to Walks: Once comfortable indoors, practice walking on a leash in a quiet, distraction-free area like your backyard.
• Proofing: Gradually introduce distractions like other dogs or people. Reward calm behavior in these situations.

Additional Tips:

• Be Patient: Leash training takes time and consistency. Be patient with your puppy and celebrate small wins.
• Choose the right equipment: A well-fitting harness can give you more control compared to a collar, especially for strong pullers.
• Seek Help: If you're struggling, consider consulting a professional dog trainer for personalized guidance.

Leash training is an investment in enjoyable walks and a well-behaved canine companion. With patience, positive reinforcement, and consistent practice, you'll have your pup leash-trained in no time!