how to leash train a puppyOne of the very first things you need to introduce to your puppy is a leash. Not only is this safer for your pup while walking, it also keeps them under control. In fact most public places nowadays require your pup to be on a leash, so you should learn how to leash train a puppy right from the start. The sooner they get used to wearing a collar the easier it will be on both of you.

Tips On How To Leash Train A Puppy

To begin, you want to introduce the collar to your pup. Just like wearing jewelry or a watch feels strange to us at first, expect your pup to need time getting used to their collar. You want him/her distracted when you place the collar on for the first time.

Try putting it on while they are eating or playing. You want to distract them from thinking about the collar. Don’t remove the collar if your puppy is trying to get out of it. Otherwise you are encouraging them to fight it off. Removing it makes your pup think that if they fight enough, you will eventually remove it. Dogs are habit forming creatures, the longer a wrong behavior continues the longer it will take for you to correct it.

Now that you have introduced them to the collar, the next step to learning how to leash train a puppy is to add the leash. Again while they are distracted attach the leash to the collar and allow them to drag it around for a while getting used to it. While your puppy is walking around, pick up the leash and walk with him/her. Make sure to use lots of verbal praise.

Problems You Might Encounter When Learning How To Leash Train A Puppy:

  • If your puppy pulls on the leash, don’t pull back. This will give him/her the impression that this is a game.  Instead let go and try again later.
  • If you puppy chews on the leash, try applying Bitter Apple or even hot sauce to the leash. Remember to have water on hand for your pup after wards.
  • As you work with your puppy, if you notice that you are getting caught up in the leash as your pup is constantly wrapping it around your legs, you may have to buy a shorter leash to start.

Now that you have introduced the leash and the collar and your pup is comfortable in it, start walking around the house with your pup along side of you. Let you puppy lead the way, instead of you. This will give them a sense of freedom.  You want these training sessions to be fun and short.  Make sure to include lots of praise, petting and treats.

A good tip to keep in mind when learning how to leash train a puppy is that the process should only evolve as quickly as your pup is inclined. Don’t rush it, some breeds may take longer than others. Patience and Persistence are a must. Make walking your pup a positive experience for them and in no time he/she will be waiting for your next outing.

Recommended Reading

Dove Cresswell is well known for her professional dog training in Hollywood. She has an awesome puppy and dog training program that is all online. You don’t need to download any ebook and read lots of boring pages. It’s all done through online videos. She has 7 complete lessons with all the info you need with one of them focusing on walking politely on a leash. I highly suggest checking her program out…

Click Here To Learn More About Training by Dove Cresswell – Professional Hollywood North Dog Trainer

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