Training your dog on a leash
Activities like taking your dog for a walk or going to the vet are made easier if you train your dog to use a leash properly. With proper leash training, you will be in control and able to handle your dog in any situation.
Leash training should begin as soon as you bring a new puppy home. Dogs vary in the length of time it takes to train them to use a leash. Some dogs will learn within a few days, others may take one to two weeks. Remember, consistency is the key.
Getting to know the dog collar
The first step is to put a dog collar on your puppy so he can get to know how it feels. The collar should fit loose enough not to suffocate him, but not so loose that it can be pulled over his head. The collar should be the right size if your thumb can fit comfortably between your dog’s fur and the collar.
Put a collar on your puppy as soon as you bring him home. You may find it easier to do this when your puppy is playing or eating as he will be distracted. Your puppy’s initial reaction will be to remove the collar. He will try to do this by scratching or rolling. You should not remove the collar when he tries to remove it. Wait until your dog is no longer paying attention to the collar before removing it. Within a day or two, your puppy will begin to feel comfortable with his new collar.
The dog leash
When your puppy is comfortable with the collar, you can introduce him to the leash. This is done by letting your dog roam free with a leash attached to his collar. You should use a light leash first. Do not leave your dog unattended with a leash attached because the leash can get caught on something that could catch your pup. If your pup gets tangled and you’re nearby, you’ll be able to free him so he can continue playing.
It may take a day or two for your puppy to get used to the leash. The next stage of training can begin as soon as your puppy is comfortable on its leash.
Leash training for dogs – walking
Walking beside you on a leash is the next step in your leash training program. This step can be started at home where there are fewer distractions. Your leash should be long enough that you can keep it slack so it doesn’t pull on your dog. Your puppy should be free to roam.
Stop walking immediately if your puppy pulls on the leash. His leash pulling behavior will be encouraged if you don’t stop. Call your dog to come to you, but don’t pull on the leash. Praise him when he comes and then start walking again. If your dog pulls on the leash again, stop and repeat the process. Your puppy needs to learn that he won’t get very far if he pulls on his leash. Repeat this process until your dog understands what is expected. Consistency is what matters.
It may take several walks before you realize that your dog is no longer pulling on the leash. It is important to praise your dog when he does a task correctly. Be sure to praise and treat him every time he takes three or four steps without pulling.
How to train an adult dog on a leash
It is true that it is easier to train a puppy on a leash than an adult dog. Because puppies are smaller, they are easier to physically control. Senior dogs are not only stronger physically, but also have to overcome some bad habits.
The process of training an adult dog to walk beside you on a leash is the same as for a puppy. It may be physically more difficult due to the dog’s weight and strength, but you must maintain complete control throughout the training process.
A harness or gentle lead can be helpful when training an older dog to use a leash. A harness will give you control over the dog’s entire body, not just its neck. If the dog pulls on the leash when wearing a soft lead, his head is pulled up. It’s uncomfortable, but not painful.
It is not a complicated process to train your dog on a leash. It takes time and patience, but you’ll be rewarded with a well-behaved dog that you can take almost anywhere.
#Training #dog #leash
