How to Get a Dog Used to the Leash

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By Janet Ford
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How to Get a Dog Used to the Leash

The first step to leash training any dog is getting the dog use to the leash being on them to begin with. The first time a dog is put on a leash can be much to traumatic for them if you are expecting to lead them anywhere right off the get-go. Follow these simple steps to get your dog use to the leash and start your leash training on a positive note.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Dog Leash
Dog
Patience

Step 1

Check that your dog's collar is properly fitting. The leash should not be uncomfortably tight but the collar should not be so loose that it can slip over the dog's head if they pull on it. To avoid the dog pulling away from the leash and getting the collar off, you may need it to be a bit more snug than normally. Remember to loosen it back up again when you're done.
Step 2

Place the leash on the dog and drop it. The idea at this stage is to allow the dog to see the leash attached to them and realize it is not a threat to them. You must observe the dog at this stage to prevent them getting tangled on anything. This should only take 10 minutes or so.
Step 3

Pick up the leash and show your dog a tasty morsel such as a piece of homemade liver treat (link to super easy recipe in resource section). Now that you have their attention, walk away. Allow the dog to lick at the treat when they come when called with the leash on. Never go to the dog.
Step 4

Reward your dog often for any positive behavior while on the leash. Do your best to make this a positive experience that the dog will enjoy. The more they enjoy their time on the leash, the easier training will be on you as well.
Step 5

Begin walking sporadically, while not appearing to be looking at your dog. Give them the illusion you forgot that they are even there but still watch them out of the corner of your eye for safety reasons. Turn left, walk straight, turn right, turn right again, turn around, walk backwards... be as unpredictable as possible. This will keep your dog focused on what you are doing rather than what they would like to be doing.
Step 6

Until your dog is fully leash trained, try attaching the leash to your belt if the dog is small. For a larger dog, it's safer for you to just hold the leash. Now keep the dog this way while you go about your normal daily activities. This does double duty in helping with house breaking as well if that is something else you're working on.