How to Leash a Pit Bull

The pit bull is a misunderstood breed. This dog has a tragic past, and although originally bred for fighting, pit bulls are tolerant and loyal to humans. If they are socialized and trained properly, they can be loving, affectionate and playful pets, and in the past, have even been known for their patience with children. They are energetic dogs that require a lot of exercise. Their daily exercise routine should include at least two 30-minute walks. Teach your pit bull proper leash manners and make it an example of the positive qualities of the breed.

Things You'll Need

  • Collar or head halter
  • Leash
  • Training treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fit your pit bull with a collar by measuring the circumference of its neck. Buckle the collar around the neck, leaving space for two fingers, side-by-side, underneath to ensure adequate room for your pit bull to breathe.

    • 2

      Attach a leash to the collar. Allow your pit bull to simply drag the leash around the house until it gets used to wearing it. Provide treats for your pit bull periodically, so that it learns that the leash is a positive experience.

    • 3

      Take hold of the leash and walk around your home. Use treats as a lure to keep your pit bull by your side while speaking the command "heel" or "side." Always walk your dog on the same side to avoid confusion. Move out into your backyard when your pit bull masters the leash inside the house.

    • 4

      Go on short training walks. Your energetic pit bull will want to keep going, but your initial training walks should be kept short so that the focus can be on proper leash manners. Take plenty of treats along with you to encourage your pit bull to stay by your side.

    • 5

      Stop walking if your pit bull tries to pull on the leash. Pit bulls, with their energy and curiosity, want to continue forward momentum, and when you stop, you take the reward out of pulling. Call your dog to your side. Reward it the instant the leash goes loose and then continue your walk.

    • 6

      Repeat training each time you take a walk. Gradually increase the length of your walks and the length of time your pit bull must be on a loose leash before it gets a reward. Phase out the use of treats and rely on praise and forward motion as a reward. Your pit bull will learn that it has nothing to gain by pulling, and will start staying by your side.

    • 7

      Switch to a head halter, such as a Gentle Leader, if your pit bull proves to be particularly stubborn, as the breed is known to be, and continues to pull. Pit bulls are extremely muscular and are often oblivious to pain, so they can hurt themselves pulling on the leash. If you suspect this may be a problem for your pit bull, switch to a head halter immediately to reduce your dog's ability to pull before you continue the training.