Learning how to walk on a leash is an important skill to teach your puppy.Walking your dog will give you much needed exercise for your puppy and it will improve his responsiveness.Consistency and patience are keys to successful leash training.You are likely to share many happy walks with your puppy if you remember this.
Step 1: Do not be impatient.
The introduction of a puppy to a leash and collar is the most important part.No puppy has ever learned to be perfect on a leash.Proper training involves calm practice with the dog.
Step 2: A reward system should be developed.
The easiest way to reward a puppy is with small treats.These are tasty rewards for the puppy that are quick enough to not distract the dog from his training.A game of fetch or tug-of-war can be enough of a reward to reinforce positive behavior.Clicker training is a good reward system.The clicker makes it easier for you to communicate with your dog by making a clicking noise and giving him a treat.
Step 3: Pick a leash and collar.
A light leash and a flat collar will allow your puppy to get used to having something around his neck.While the puppy is small and timid, there is no need for a crazy choker collar.
Step 4: Allow your puppy to get used to the collar.
Puppies get nervous when attaching a collar for the first time.Some puppies try to chew on the collar.If your new friend doesn't like his collar, there are some general strategies you can try.Distract the dog.Put the collar on while you are playing with him or in the yard.Reward the puppy.As soon as you put the collar on, give him his favorite treat or toy.The collar needs to be loosened.The collar should be snug around his neck, but not too tight.
Step 5: Introducing the leash.
It's a good idea to start training your puppy at home rather than out on a walk.This can cause some dogs to go crazy, while other dogs simply shut down and won't move.Drop your end on the ground the first time you attach a leash.Play with the puppy, introduce him to another dog, and let them play while the leash is still dragging around.Make sure he doesn't get caught up in the process.Pick up the leash occasionally and call the dog to you.
Step 6: A calm environment is what you want.
Many dogs will bark, whine, or spin when they see a leash.Stand calmly with the leash in hand until he calms down.If you lead by example, the dog will pick up on your calm demeanor and you will be more likely to remain calm.
Step 7: Treat you with them.
During the training process, you should carry small, easily chewable treats for your puppy.The training process can be interrupted if the treats are too large and long to chew.A hot dog or piece of cheese is a good treat for training.
Step 8: Be patient and be supportive.
The puppy should be adjusted to being on a leash.The dog should be petted if he looks nervous.Small treats can be offered to the dog as you walk.As your dog gets used to being on a leash, be patient.There are simple and effective ways to deal with bad behavior without getting upset.
Step 9: Bad behavior can be stopped.
Bad habits can be stopped by addressing them every time they occur.You don't need to get angry or hit the dog.Positive and constructive ways to reinforce good behavior are available.There are some examples of bad behavior that can be addressed.Stand still as soon as this happens.Let the dog know that when it pulls, it gets nowhere.Give the dog a treat when he comes.He will learn not to do this if you do it consistently and calmly.When a puppy doesn't want to go for a walk, take a few steps away, call him, and give him a treat.Continue walking until your puppy resists again.The puppy will enjoy being on the leash if it is calm and consistent.
Step 10: Be sure to be consistent.
The most important part of dog training is this.The dog is eager and happy to learn, all he needs is for you to communicate his expectations.Good behavior can be developed by rewarding positive behavior and stopping bad behavior.If you let the puppy pull on leash frequently, he will have a hard time knowing what you want.
Step 11: You should walk your dog a lot.
If possible, take your dog for walks multiple times a day.It will allow you to reinforce good walking practice for your dog.Stay patient and don't reward negative behavior.
Step 12: Staying in front is important.
The dog will obey the leash if you are in control.If he tries to pull, you may need to shorten the leash.Give him a treat and then call him back.Continue to shorten the leash until he is used to walking at your side or behind you.Stay calm and attentive.If you get tense or angry, don't play on your phone.
Step 13: Pay attention to other dog owners.
If you notice a dog owner who seems nervous or weak, be prepared to deal with the behavior of their dog.If your dog does not pull on the leash in order to play with the other dog, you should reward him with a treat.
Step 14: Proper walking equipment is what you choose.
If your dog is prone to pulling, use a short leash.Regular body harnesses usually encourage the dog to pull, but no-pull harnesses can decrease pulling.The job of training the dog is more difficult if you use retractable leashes.Training with a certified professional dog trainer is the only way to provide an advantage.