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Training Your Puppy to Walk on a Leash
Many people are
surprised when they first get their puppy and it doesn't respond well to
walking on a leash - but it's important to remember that being on a
leash isn't a natural situation for a dog! The good news is that
teaching your puppy to walk on a leash is a fairly easy thing to do, and
the earlier that you can start leash training with your puppy, the
quicker you will see results.
Being able to walk
your puppy on a leash is not only an enjoyable way for you to spend time
with your companion; it's also a far safer experience for your dog. The
first step to training your puppy to walk on a leash is to get them used
to wearing a collar or harness. Many smaller dogs prefer to be walked on
a harness, as the leash sits further away from their head, while many
owners of larger dogs opt for a harness as it is easier to control the
dog's strength. Both options are fine, and you should choose whichever
solution is best for you and your dog.
When you first put
the collar on your puppy, be sure to take time to feed or play with them
so that they associate the collar with something enjoyable. Many puppies
will try to rub and scratch against the collar, but you should leave it
on until they have forgotten about it.
Once your puppy is
used to the collar, you need to introduce them to the lead. The best
type of lead for a young puppy is one that is lightweight and made of
nylon or fabric, rather than chain or leather. Let your puppy sniff the
lead, clip it to their collar and walk around with it. Make sure that
you supervise your puppy during this process so that they don't get
caught on anything.
When your puppy is
used to the feel of the leash and the collar, it's time for you to pick
up the handle. You need only do this for brief sessions each day, so
that your puppy doesn't pull back against the lead. Use happy, positive
words throughout this process to show your puppy that their behavior is
what you want.
Next you should
start taking short walks around the house and yard. Again, be sure to
use positive reinforcement whenever your puppy is doing the right thing.
If they start to pull or drag against the leash (or simply sits down)
stop walking and call them towards you. Your puppy will soon realize
that pulling is an unacceptable behavior and that when they are walking
alongside you they are doing the right thing.
Your ultimate aim
for leash training is to be able to walk with your dog without either of
your pulling on the leash. Your leash should form a relaxed cord between
both you and your puppy, enabling you to both take pleasant walks
without any stress and strain.
As always, be
persistent and consistent with training your puppy and you will reap the
benefits of a well trained dog.
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