How to Use Leash Drag Training on a Puppy

Getting a new puppy will require a lot of time and training. Your young dog will need to be taught everything from housebreaking to socialization, and even things such as wearing a collar and leash. After your puppy is used to the collar and leash, you can use the leash to assist in the training of other things.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Purchase a lightweight cotton or nylon collar for your puppy. Be sure to get one that is adjustable so you can gradually make it larger as the dog grows. A quick snap collar is better than a buckle collar because it is easier to get on and off.

2. Put the collar on your puppy without any tags attached. The tags will make noise and can scare the puppy. Let her sniff the collar before putting it on her. Act like the collar is a positive thing. After putting the collar on your dog distract her by playing with her so she forgets about it.

3. Attach a lightweight leash to the collar and let the dog drag it around. Do not hold onto the leash or try to lead him with it at first. Play with the dog again to distract him from the leash.

4. Pick up the end of the leash and allow the dog to lead you around the house. After she is comfortable with the leash then you can start leading her with it. Use a lot of encouragement and even treats to get the puppy to follow you.

5. Leave the leash attached to the puppy's collar and let him drag it around the house to give you easy access to him while you are training and housebreaking him. When the puppy starts to go to the bathroom in the house, or demonstrates another behavior that is not acceptable, pick up the leash to lead and direct the puppy.

Tips & Warnings

• If you rush over to pick up the dog when she is about to have an accident you can create a situation known as hand shyness, where the dog cowers when you reach for her. Using the leash dragging method of training will help you to avoid hand shyness.