Training your dog to use a leash will make it much easier to walk him or take him to the vet. This will put you in control and help you handle your dog in any situation.
The best time to start leash training is with a new puppy. Some dogs will be trained to use the leash within a few days while others may take 1-2 weeks. Consistency is what is important.
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The First Step - The Dog Collar
The first step is to put a dog collar on your puppy so he can become familiar with how it feels. Make sure the collar is tight enough so it cannot be pulled over your puppy’s head but at the same time it should not be so tight it will choke him. If there is enough room for your thumb to fit adequately between the collar and your dog’s coat then you know it fits comfortably.
You can place a collar on your puppy as soon as you bring him home. It may be easier to put the collar on when your puppy is eating or when you are playing with him since these activities would provide a distraction. Your puppy’s initial response will be to remove the collar. He will attempt to remove it by scratching at it or by rolling around. You should not remove the collar when he is trying to get it off. Wait until your dog is not paying attention to the collar before you remove it. Within a day or two your puppy should feel comfortable with his new collar.
The Next Step - The Dog Leash
Once your puppy feels comfortable with his collar you can acquaint him with the leash. To accomplish this attach a leash to the collar and let your dog move around freely. You should use a lightweight leash at first. You could use a larger leather leash once your puppy feels comfortable with a leash.
You should not leave your dog unsupervised with the leash attached because the leash may catch on something entrapping your puppy. If your puppy does become entangled simply release him and allow him to continue playing. In a day or two your dog should be used to the leash. You are ready to move to the next stage of leash training when you puppy feels comfortable with the leash.
Dog Leash Training - Walking
Now you are ready to teach your dog to walk beside you on the leash. This process can be started at home where there are fewer distractions.
When walking your dog the leash should be kept loose. Don’t pull on your dog. Your puppy must be able to walk freely.
If you puppy pulls on the leash you must stop immediately. His behavior of pulling on the leash will be encouraged if you do not stop immediately. After stopping call your dog to come to you. Don’t yank on the leash. Praise him when he comes and then start walking again. This process should be repeated everytime your dog pulls on the leash. If you are consistent with this process your puppy will soon learn he can not go very far if he pulls on the leash. Duplicate this process until your dog understands what is expected. Consistency is what is important.
It may take a few walks before you realize your dog is not pulling on the leash. When your dog performs a task properly remember to reward him. Your puppy should be praised and given a treat when he walks three or four steps without pulling the leash.
Your dog wants to please you. Your praises should be enthusiastic. Dog treats often add to your dog’s motivation in successfully completing a task.
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Leash Training an Adult Dog
Adult dogs are not as easy to leash train as a puppy. A puppy is smaller and easier to control physically. An adult dog has greater strength and established habits that must be overcome.
Leash training an adult dog is the same procedure as training a puppy. You must maintain full control when training an adult dog even though it is more demanding physically.
If you are having difficulty with an older and larger dog you may want to consider using a harness or gentle leader when leash training. The harness will give you control over a dog’s entire body instead of just his neck. The gentle leader causes a dog’s head to go up if he pulls on a leash. This is uncomfortable but not painful.
Leash training your dog is easy. It does take time and patience, as with all dog training, but the reward is a well-behaved dog you can take almost everywhere.
I hope these ideas are helpful. For a complete guide that will assist you in training your dog, in all situations, visit Dog Training Secrets.




















