Walking on a leash is one of the most important skills to teach a puppy. By making him walk, you will not only enable him to do the physical exercise he needs to grow healthy, but you can make him become more obedient and responsive to commands. The secret to successfully leash training is to have consistency and patience. Remember this at every stage of your training and you will both be more likely to walk happily together.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Getting the Puppy Used to the Collar and Leash
Step 1. Be patient
This is the most important part of educating your dog to wear the leash and collar for the first time. No puppy has ever learned to behave perfectly on a leash in one day. Proper training implies confidence, calm and consistency in practice.
Step 2. Put a reward system into practice
The simplest method is to reward the puppy with small, easily chewable treats. These will be delicious rewards for him, but also quick enough to keep him from getting distracted from training.
- Sometimes even just playing throwing and throwing an object or pulling a rope can be a reward that reinforces positive behavior.
- Another great way to reward him, albeit more complex, is clicker training. This tool allows you to more easily communicate to the pet what the right behavior is to take with a click and a tidbit as soon as he does it.
Step 3. Choose the collar and leash
A flat, lightweight collar and an equally light leash are great to start with and allow your puppy to get used to having something around their neck. There is no need to purchase a flashy chain collar, especially if the pooch is small and shy.
Step 4. Get your puppy to get used to the collar
It is not uncommon for little dogs to get nervous when they first wear it. Some throw tantrums or try to chew around the neck. There are a few strategies you can try if your four-legged friend doesn't seem willing to wear it.
- Distract him. Try wearing the collar while you are playing with him or while you are out in the fresh air.
- Reward him. Hand him his favorite treat or toy and give it to him as soon as you hook the collar.
- Loosen the collar. It should be snug around the neck, but not tight enough to annoy him.
Step 5. Get used to the leash
During this phase, some dogs can give the numbers, while others simply remain silent, not moving. The first time you put on the leash, drop the end in your hand to the ground and let the dog run after it. Play with him or introduce him to another dog and have him play while dragging the leash around. Make sure it doesn't get tangled when it moves. Every now and then take the leash and call him, offering him a few treats when he arrives.
Part 2 of 3: Training the Puppy to Use a Leash
Step 1. Create a calm atmosphere
Many dogs get hugely excited when they see a leash and then start barking, moaning, or circling around. In these cases, he will remain impassive with the leash in hand until he has calmed down. Remember to stay calm while walking. The dog is able to sense your energy and is more likely to remain calm if you set a good example.
Step 2. Take some treats with you
You should get into the habit of carrying small, easily chewable bites for your puppy during training. If they are too big and take too long to crunch, they risk suspending the training phases for a long time. For example, in these circumstances you could use a few bits of hot dog or cheese.
Step 3. Give your support and be patient
Allow the puppy to get used to the idea of being on a leash. If he seems nervous, lean in front of him and stroke him. You can also offer him a treat as you walk. Be patient as he gets used to being on a leash. Bad habits should not be rewarded, but simple and effective methods can be used to manage bad behavior without getting nervous.
Step 4. Stop the wrong behavior
You can cut bad habits in the bud by managing them whenever they occur. Remember that there is no need to get angry or yell or beat the dog. There are more constructive and positive ways to reinforce correct behavior without losing your temper. Here are some of the most common examples of bad behavior and tips on how to deal with them.
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The puppy pulls the leash.
As soon as this happens, stop walking and stay still. Do not pull on the leash, but tell the dog that when he pulls, he is not going anywhere. Call him and give him a reward when he arrives. If you act this way calmly and consistently every time he pulls, he will soon learn not to do it again.
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The puppy sits or lies down.
When a puppy refuses to walk, take a few steps to walk away, call him and offer him a reward. As long as he continues to oppose, resume walking and repeat this operation. Once again, if you are calm and consistent, the puppy will learn to walk on a leash.
Step 5. Be consistent
This is the most important part in any type of training. Dogs are eager and happy to learn animals. All he needs is for the master to communicate his expectations correctly. When you consistently reward the right behaviors and stop the wrong ones, the dog will begin to become a disciplined animal. However, if you are inconsistent and allow him to pull on the leash most of the time, he will have a hard time figuring out what you want.
Part 3 of 3: Continue Training when the Dog is Adult
Step 1. Walk your dog frequently
Keep taking him for a walk, several times a day, if you can. In this way you will allow him to gradually consolidate the good habit of walking so that he does not forget the training. Remember not to lose your temper when you don't press him for engaging in negative behavior.
Step 2. Stay ahead
By doing this, you will establish that you are in control and will ensure that the dog is more and more obedient when on a leash. If you try to pull, you may need to reduce the length of the leash and stop. Call him, give him a treat and repeat. Continue to shorten the leash as you go until your dog gets used to walking beside you or just behind you.
Remember to stay calm and alert. Don't play on your phone and don't be tense or angry
Step 3. Pay attention to other owners walking the dog
If you walk along a sidewalk or path and notice that another dog's owner seems nervous or unsettled, be prepared to deal with their pet's unwelcome behavior. Keep walking forward with your furry friend by your side and reward him with a treat if he doesn't pull on the leash if he wants to try playing with the other dog.
Step 4. Choose the right equipment for walking
If your dog tends to pull, use a short leash (1.5 to 2 meters). The special anti-draft harnesses are able to reduce the strength of the animal, while the normal harnesses usually support its movements while pulling. Avoid using retractable leashes, as they make the task of training the dog more complicated. The chain collar and prong pattern often do not give any advantage, unless the animal is trained by a qualified dog trainer.
