How to train your dog to walk on a leash

Training you dog to walk on a leash will help you spend more enjoyable time with your dog. Learning the proper way to walk a dog on a leash will lead to safer dog walking and more fun with your dog.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Dog
• Choke Collar
• Leash

1. Catch the dog. Use a bribe like sardines or left over Taco Bell to get him to come to you if necessary.

2. Form the choke chain in the shape of the letter "P" and place it on the dog's neck.

3. Connect the loose end of the choke chain to the leash.

4. Walk slowly encouraging your dog to walk beside you.

5. If you dog lunges ahead, he is trying to be the alpha dog. Give a sharp tug on the leash to stop his movement. Immediately release the pressure on the choke chain and praise your dog when you get back along side of him.

6. If your dog balks, drag him a few steps with the leash and then praise him when he finally gets to you.

7. 
   A Happy Dog on a Leash

   Continue working with your dog for about fifteen minutes at a time. Always praise your dog when he is beside you no matter how he got there.

Tips & Warnings

• Always pet and love on your dog while training.
• Be firm and consistent with commands
• Always end a training session on a positive note.
• Do not leave the choke collar in place when not training
• Do not pull on the leash constantly. Use sharp quick jerks to get the dog's attention.
• Never use the leash to punish your dog.
• Never punish your dog after he comes to you.

Resources

• Dog Leash Training
• Dog Behavior Blog