Training your dog to use a leash will make it much easier to walk him or take him to the vet. Leash training helps you handle you dog in any situation because you will be in control.
As soon as you bring your new puppy home you should begin leash training. Some dogs will be trained to use the leash within a few days while others may take 1-2 weeks. The key is to be consistent.
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The Dog Collar
Putting a collar on your puppy, so he can become accustomed to how it feels, is your first step. The collar you choose should be tight enough that it cannot be pulled over his head, but not so tight that it could be a choking hazard. Generally speaking, the correct collar tension should allow your thumb to fit adequately between the collar and your dog’s coat.
As soon as you get home put a collar on your puppy. It may be easier to put the collar on when your puppy is eating or when you are playing with him since these activities would provide a distraction. At first your puppy will try to remove the collar. He will attempt to remove it by scratching at it or by rolling around. Never remove the collar when he is doing this. Do not remove the collar until your dog is not paying attention to it. Your puppy may not feel comfortable with his new collar for a day or two.
Adding the Dog Leash
When your dog is feeling comfortable with his collar you can introduce him to the leash. This can be done by attaching a leash to the collar and letting your dog move around with the leash attached. You should use a lightweight leash at first. When your puppy has adjusted to using a leash you could get a nicer leather leash, if desired.
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. Release your dog if he becomes tangled up and let him continue to play. In a day or two your dog should be used to the leash. The next stage of leash training can begin as soon as your puppy feels comfortable with his leash.
The Next Step of Dog Leash Training – Walking
The next step in the dog leash training process is teaching your dog to walk beside you on the leash. This step can be started at home where there are fewer distractions.
When walking your dog the leash should be loose. Your leash should also be long enough that you are not pulling your dog. Your puppy should be free to walk.
As soon as your puppy pulls on the leash you must stop. You will reinforce his behavior of pulling on the leash if you keep walking. Refrain from yanking on the leash and simply call your dog to come to you. Praise him when he comes and then start walking again. Continue repeating this process anytime your dog pulls on the leash. If you are consistent with this process your puppy will soon learn he can not go very far if he pulls on the leash. Continue to repeat this process as needed. Being consistent is important.
It may take a few walks before you realize your dog is not pulling on the leash. Always reward your dog when he performs tasks properly. Your puppy should be praised and given a treat when he walks three or four steps without pulling the leash.
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Dog Leash Training an Adult Dog
Leash training a puppy is easier than training 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.
Leash training an adult dog is the same procedure as training a puppy. Training an adult dog is more demanding physically but you must maintain full control throughout the training process.
A harness or gentle leader can be helpful when training an older dog to use a lease. The harness prevents choking and helps you control a dog’s entire body. The gentle leader causes a dog’s head to go up if he pulls on a leash. This can be uncomfortable but it is not painful.
Leash training your dog is not complicated. It does take time and patience, as with all dog training, but the reward is 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.