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 begin 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 position a collar on your puppy as soon as you bring him home. You may find it easier to put the collar on your puppy when he is playing or eating since he will be distracted. Your puppy will initially work at removing the collar. He may scratch at the collar or roll around while trying to get it off. Never remove the collar when he is doing this. If you do remove the collar wait until your dog is not paying attention to it. Your puppy should feel comfortable with his collar after a day or two.
The Dog Leash – Step Two
When you puppy feels comfortable with the collar you can then acquaint him with the leash. This is done by letting your dog move around freely with a leash attached to his collar. It would probably be best to use a thin lightweight leash. You could use a larger leather leash once your puppy feels comfortable with a leash.
You can keep your dog safe by supervising him when he has the leash on. It would be easy for the leash to get tangled up. 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. Once your puppy feels comfortable with the leash you are ready to move on to the next stage of leash training.
Dog Leash Training – Walking
Walking beside you on a leash is the next step in your leash training program. This process can be started at home where there are fewer distractions.
The leash tension should be slack with enough length that you are not physically pulling your dog. Your puppy should be free to walk.
If you puppy pulls on the leash you must stop immediately. If you keep walking you are reinforcing his behavior of pulling on the leash. After stopping call your dog to come to you. Don’t yank on the leash. When he returns to your side praise him for coming and then start walking again. If your dog pulls on the leash again stop and repeat the process. Your puppy will soon learn it is not to his advantage to pull on the leash. Repeat this process over and over again. Consistency is what is important.
It may take multiple walks before you realize your dog is no longer pulling on the dog leash. Remember to reward your dog for tasks performed properly. As soon as your puppy walks a few steps without pulling the leash reinforce his behavior buy praising him and givin him a treat.
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Leash Training an Adult Dog
It is easier to leash train a puppy than it is an adult dog. A puppy is smaller and easier to control physically. An adult dog has greater strength and established habits that must be overcome.
The procedure in training an adult dog to walk beside you on a leash is the same as with a puppy. You must maintain full control when training an adult dog even though it is more demanding physically.
A harness or gentle leader can be helpful when training an older dog to use a lease. A harness helps you control a dog’s entire body instead of just his neck. When a dog is wearing a gentle leader his head will go up when he pulls on the leash. This can be uncomfortable but it is not painful.
It is not a complicated process to leash train your dog. It requires time and patience but you will be rewarded with a well-behaved dog you can take just about anywhere.
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.
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