Teaching Your Puppy to Walk on a Leash

You’ve gotten your puppy home and are starting the basics of training around the house. Great! So, when can you show off your new little buddy with a walk around the neighborhood?

Going for daily walks with your puppy is a great way for both of you to get healthy regular exercise. Plus, each venture out and about provides the mental stimulation and socialization opportunities that are so important during a young dog’s development. Before you hit the sidewalk, though, here are a few tips from our professional trainers on how to get your new pup used to walking on a leash.

• Being out and about means your puppy can experience all kinds of new sights, sounds and sensations. Walking on grass or on gravel, smelling the flowers...it’s all new and exciting. Before you go too far from home, however, check with your vet about your dog’s vaccinations. There are some your pup should have before venturing into the world on foot.
• Start with a six-foot leash and a properly fitted flat buckle collar, worn loose enough to spin around your puppy’s neck, but snug enough that it won’t slip over their head if either of you pulls on the leash. Puppy training treats can help make the experience a positive one for your pup. Try giving them a few as they let you fit their collar and attach their leash. 
• Next, encourage your puppy to try out their new gear by moving around on leash. Give them lots of excited praise as they learn to strut their stuff! By remaining in one spot and letting them explore within the radius of the leash, you can help them gain confidence, while also introducing limits. If they tug on the leash, don’t tug back or yank it. Instead, maintain a firm hold and offer them treats and praise when they move toward you. 
• Who hasn’t seen a puppy gleefully chewing on their brand new leash? It’s cute at first, but a few leashes in, you may wish you’d broken the habit sooner. The best way to avoid having your puppy chew or tug on their leash is to keep it from dangling near their face. Gently but firmly hold the leash directly above their head, tight enough to keep the leash straight, but with enough slack to keep from tugging on their collar.
• Finally, have an upbeat, happy attitude while walking, and talk to your puppy encouragingly as you go. Enjoy your pup’s adorable enthusiasm as you make your way down the street, but try to gauge distance based on their young legs; if they get tired, you may end up carrying them home! 

For any puppy training needs, our professional trainers are happy to meet with you for a Manners or eManners consultation. Helping families and puppies live joyfully together is what we do best.

Have a great walk!