How to Leash Train Your Puppy

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By ashcraft
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Heel position

Train your puppy to walk with you on leash

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Training Collar
6' Leash

Step 1

Hopefully, you have had your puppy on a leash and he will walk freely without pulling on the leash. If this is a new experience for both of you, we will go over the equipment you will need to get started. You will first need a training collar. Select a light weight collar. One that when pulled tight has approximately 3" more than the size of your puppy's neck. You will also need a 6' leash made out of leather or cotton web. Remember you don't want your equipment heavy so your puppy resents the time he has to wear them and you do not want a chain leash that clangs as you walk.
Step 2

Correct collar position

You are now ready to start your leash training. Take your puppy to the same place in your yard for your training sessions where there are no distractions. Your want his full attention! With your puppy on your left side, you want the pull of the collar to come from over the top of his neck so that when you pull and release, the collar will also release. With you puppy at your left side, and the leash in your right hand, gently pull up with the right hand, tightening up on the leash while you push down on the puppy's hind quarters say "sit." Praise your pup for following your instructions. If he doesn't, say "No" and start again. When you praise him, do not do it so enthusiastically that he jumps up and down and you have to start over.
Step 3

Starting off

With your pup sitting at your left side and your leash in your right hand (loosely) start off walking at a normal gait, not too fast and not too slow. If your pup races off in front of you, give a jerk and release to bring him back to your side. You can also do an about turn with your jerk and release so he learns that he has to watch you at all times to know what you want him to do. Remember if you keep a tight leash he will continue to pull against it. Use a sharp jerk and release and change your direction until he is walking freely and not fighting the leash. If your pup lags behind and does not want to go with you, pat your left leg with your left hand and encourage him to go with you. If you are doing it correctly, it should only take about 10 - 15 minutes until he has the idea. Remember, you want your puppy to look forward to this time with you so make it a happy experience!