Dog Leash Training - The Basic Steps
Walking your dog or taking him to the vet are much easier when you have trained your dog to use a leash properly. Leash training puts you in control and helps you manage your dog in any situation.
The best time to begin leash training is with a new puppy. Every dog is unique. Some will learn to use a leash within a few days while other dogs may take a couple of weeks to learn. Consistency is what is crucial.
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The First Step - The Dog Collar
Your puppy must learn to be comfortable with a collar around his neck. 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.
Place the collar on your puppy as soon as you get home. You may find it easier to put the collar on your puppy when he is playing or eating since he will be distracted. At first your puppy will try to remove the collar. He will try to get it off 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. Your puppy may not feel comfortable with his new collar for a day or two.
The Dog Leash
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. When your puppy feels comfortable with a leash you could get a fancier leather leash.
Don’t leave your dog unsupervised with the leash attached in case it gets caught on something and endangers your puppy. If your puppy gets tangled up you will be able to release your dog and allow him to continue playing. It may take a day or two before your dog is 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.
The Next Step of Dog Leash Training - Walking
Teaching your dog to walk beside you on a leash is the next step in your dog leash training. 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.
As soon as your puppy pulls on the leash you must stop. If you do not stop instantly you will encourage his behavior of pulling on the leash. Refrain from yanking on the leash and simply call your dog to come to you. When he returns to your side praise him for coming and then start walking again. Continue repeating this process anytime your dog pulls on the leash. Your puppy must learn that he will not get very far if he pulls on the lease. Repeat this process over and over again. Consistency is vital.
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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Dog 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. Adult dogs are not only stronger physically but thy also have some bad habits to overcome.
Training an adult dog to use a leash is the same procedure as with a puppy. It may be physically more difficult because of the dog’s weight but strength and you must maintain full control throughout the training process.
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 body instead of putting strain on his neck. When a dog is wearing a gentle leader his head will go up when he pulls on the leash. This is uncomfortable but not painful.
Leash training your dog is easy. Time and patience is required but the results are worth it. You will have 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.
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