How Old Should a Puppy Be Before Leash Training?

Puppies can begin supervised leash training when they are still with their mothers at about 6 or 7 weeks old. They can get used to a collar at this age, but they need supervision so they do not get it caught on anything and choke.

Distraction

Puppies will try to remove collars and chest harnesses. A good way to get a puppy used to a collar is to play with him while he is wearing it.

Introduction

According to the "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs," a good way to let a puppy know a leash is harmless is to attach one to his collar and let him drag it around during supervised times.

Next Step

While your puppy is walking around dragging the leash, pick up the leash. Let him continue to wander where he wants to while you praise him and offer him treats.

Considerations

Some breeds of puppies may still be able to slip out of a collar even when they are several months old. If this case, use a chest harness instead.

Warning

Use only a standard buckle collar on puppies, never a choke chain or chain-link collar.

References

• "The KISS Guide to Raising a Puppy" (Liz Palika, 2002)
• "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs" (Sheldon L. Gerstenfeld, VMD, 1999)
• How to Teach Your Puppy to Walk on a Leash by Dr. Ilana Reisner

Resources

• Choosing Collars, Harnesses and Leashes
• Leash Training for Puppies