Most dog trainers agree that the way to build the best relationship with your newest furry companion is to take them on walks. However, you won’t find a more resistant walker than a puppy! They struggle against a collar, and the leash is a completely foreign concept. Once they understand, you’ll have the perfect backdrop to train your puppy into the dog you’ve dreamed of having. Knowing how to start leash training the right way will be the key to your success!
How to Start Leash Training
The first step to effective leash training is ensuring you have the right gear. Choose a collar or harness that fits your puppy well. If the fit is too loose, it can be wiggled out of. If it is too tight, your puppy will not only be in pain, but also constantly distracted. You should be able to fit two fingers snuggly between the collar and your pup’s neck. They can still show discomfort at first, but if the fit is correct and they continue to fight it, introduce it slowly. Have them wear it for small increments of time while with you to ensure they don’t hurt themselves. A leash should be standard, non-retractable, 4-8 feet in length. You’ll also need treats and potty bags on hand!
Start training indoors by attaching them to the leash and holding it as you walk around the house occasionally. Maybe hold a treat to help them naturally want to follow you. Try leading them to a part of the house they’ve never been to, to pique their curiosity. If they show resistance, encourage them with a positive voice. Once they start following, reward them with a “good dog,” pat on the head, or a treat. Continually increase the distance before giving another reward. The majority of puppies will not pull on the leash; they will resist going anywhere. Be patient, stay positive, and keep training sessions short. More than 15 minutes at this stage can be overwhelming and have negative effects.
Short Walks, Big Rewards
Once your pup has overcome their objections to their leash and collar, it’s time to try walking outside. Keep your walks short and sweet to build confidence. Even starting with short excursions to the backyard, where you want them to go to the bathroom, is a great way to combine leash training with potty training. Pairing commands with your actions will also help them build an understanding of your expectations and get them in the right frame of mind. In these beginning walks, try to let them lead the way with their natural curiosity, encouraging them to explore. Gently keeping them on track with minimal pulling builds a positive foundation for future walks.
Here are some basic commands that are useful when walking your pup:
Let’s Go– Use while attaching the leash to signal to your pup that it’s time for them to follow you. Start walking and encourage them to follow by repeating the command.
Time to Potty– Use when attaching the leash to signal the purpose of your walk. Start walking to the area you wish them to use and reinforce by saying, “Go Potty”.
Walk with Me– Combine with a gentle tug to encourage your puppy to either pick up the pace or slow down.
Heel– Use when your pup has become overzealous, pulling on the leash. Come to a complete stop and wait for them to come back to where you are. They should be looking to you for further instruction before you continue walking.
Sit– Use when at intersections, when people or other dogs are passing, or to calm and help them refocus before continuing a walk. Initially, you will have to forcibly, but as gently as possible, put them in a sitting position.
Leave it– Use when you don’t want them checking out an object or wandering off the path. To help them understand the command, it may take you snapping, tapping their nose, or nudging at the hip joint to encourage them to stop. This may seem harsh, but it could save you a trip to the vet if they’ve found something unsafe.
By combining physical and mental challenges, walks become a supercharged training ground. They give your puppy the chance to learn and understand your language and expectations while being socialized. Canines are pack-oriented and rely on strong leadership to guide and protect. By exposing them to new sights and sounds while maintaining control, you’re proving that you’re safe and worth following.
The Well Trained Walker
When your puppy behaves, it puts all at ease- even those who are not the biggest fans of our furry friends. Teaching them basic commands and socializing from an early age will develop confidence, reduce anxiety, and help them become friendly and approachable pups! You’ll be especially thankful you put in the time to teach your dog not to pull on the leash once they’ve grown. Your arm sockets will be even more grateful if you have a larger breed!
Furthermore, teaching your furry friend to heel and sit when others pass by gives them good trail etiquette. As your bond increases and you both gain confidence in your leadership, they won’t give others a second glance. Walks engage your puppy’s mind in a multitude of ways, and keeping it short, positive, and fun will lay the foundation of their bonds and behavior towards their family pack.
If you’re still on the lookout for a walking partner, check out our current and upcoming litters. We temperament test all of our puppies to make sure they find the perfect forever family!