How to Teach Your Puppy to Walk on a Leash Outside

The day has arrived. Finally, you and your new puppy are going on your first walk outside. You chose a pretty pink collar and matching leash and you can't wait for the neighbors to see both of you strolling along. Unfortunately, your puppy is more interested in lying down and trying to pull out of her collar. Next time, try these puppy-walking tips.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Encourage your puppy to follow you, instead of dragging her along. The great outdoors can easily distract a small puppy with its new smells, sounds and sights. You need to find a way to become the center of her attention.

2. Fill your pockets with tasty treats. Little bits of dog training biscuits work well so do small morsels of her food. Keep a few in your hand at all times and call your puppy to you, using the scent of the treats in your hand. As soon as she moves towards you, reward her with a treat.

3. Praise your puppy when she walks towards you. Immediately, give her another treat and tell her about her good behavior. Keep talking to her, bribing her with treats and walking along slowly at the same time.

4. Stand still if your puppy pulls the wrong way on the leash. Instead of jerking her back into line, just stop. You want her to realize that going in the wrong direction has no reward of any kind. Call her but don't move. When she comes back, praise her and give her a treat.

5. Keep the leash loose when walking your puppy. This only happens when she is beside you, not sitting down or pulling. Keep a squeaky dog toy in your pocket to get her attention occasionally. Successful dog training is a constant process of rewarding the correct action and giving lots of praise.

Tips & Warnings

• Use only positive reinforcement and rewards when dog training. Not only is it the quickest way, it will keep your dog from developing anxiety problems.
• Never drag your puppy or jerk on the leash. She has no idea why you are angry and you will only teach her to fear walks.