Every kind of dog, regardless of their size, breed, gender, or background, can be taught the basics of leash training. Although it might seem like leash training can be something that is difficult, time-consuming, and frustrating for both you and the dog, getting your puppy or furry companion to walk amicably on a leash is easier than you might think.
If you’re ready to hit the streets with your furry companion, we’re going to give you the basics for making leash training as seamless as possible. Let’s get started!
How to Train a Dog to Walk on a Leash
Step 1: Start with a Collar or Harness
If your canine has never had any kind of collar around their neck, placing one on them – with a leash attached – might be a lot for them at first. Take it one step at a time. Introduce your dog to the leash or harness by placing a collar or harness on them inside your home. Let them wear it for short periods of time, lengthening the time slowly as you give them treats to reward them for their behavior.
Step 2: Verbal Cue
Train your dog to respond to a verbal cue when “food is coming.” This can be a click, the word yes, or the word yes in the language of your choosing. Whatever you choose, take your dog to a distraction-free area with a leash on, and make the sound. Once they look at you, reward them with a treat. After just a few times, you’ll notice your dog start to take multiple steps in a row as they approach you.
Back up slowly and get them to walk for 10, 20, or 60-seconds at a time with the leash on. Keep the sessions short, however, since dogs can have short attention spans. You don’t want to mentally exhaust them.
TIP: Based on the dog and if they endured any abuse in their past, etc., you can do this kind of training inside your home (or if it’s winter time).
Step 3: Shorten the Hold
Once you get the dog outside on a leash, now it’s time to work on their etiquette. If you want your dog to walk alongside you in a well-trained manner without tugging at the leash, start by holding the leash close to you so there is little wiggle-room. Of course, don’t hold it so tight that you hurt the dog. Simultaneously lure the dog to the correct side of you with your cue word and treats.
After a while, you won’t need to lure nor reward the dog with treats. It will become a habit for them to walk by your side without tugging.
How to Stop a Dog from Pulling on a Leash
https://www.dogviously.com Photo
If your dog is a troublemaker and still continues to tug, consider the “tree” approach whereby you stop walking and stand perfectly still each time they do it. Don’t yell, shout, or strike the dog.
And there you have it! Leash training a dog takes a little time, some patience, and an outpouring of affection for man’s best friend. We’re here to help make it easier.
Need a new collar for your dog? Help us write more blogs with a purchase of a collar. Thank you so much for supporting Tough Pupz!