How to Get Your Dog Off a Leash

Spending time with your dog off leash is a treat for him and should be enjoyable for you, as well. However, if you are not confident in your dog's off-leash behavior, you should not allow him to run free. Never have your dog off leash in a public or crowded setting or a high-traffic or other dangerous area unless he has mastered basic obedience cues. By training your dog in safe settings, you will enjoy many walks together without being tethered to a leash.

Things You'll Need

  • 30- to 60-foot leash or cord
  • Treats
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Instructions

  1. Secure Practice

    • 1

      Bring your dog into a secure, distraction-free area like a fenced yard. On his leash, ask the dog to "Sit" and "Stay." As soon as the dog looks at you, praise him and detach the leash.

    • 2

      Allow him to roam around the yard. Every time your dog returns to you where you are, praise and toss him a treat. Encourage the dog to go off and explore or play again. The treat and the freedom are rewards for paying attention to you.

    • 3

      Ask your dog to "Come" from time to time and reward him when he does.

    • 4

      Attach the leash to your dog's collar a few times during practice immediately after a treat. As soon as he looks at you again, praise the dog and release the leash once more.

    • 5

      Add distractions to your practice area once your dog consistently comes to "check in" with you. Have a neighbor poke his head over the fence. If your dog moves toward him, give the "Come" command. If your dog remains near you, reward him.

    • 6

      Repeat these steps in other secure areas. If none are available, attach a 30-foot leash or 50- to 60-foot cord to your dog and step on this when he is ignoring you.

    Public Practice

    • 7
      Allow your dog to get comfortable in a public area on his leash.

      Take your dog to a local dog park, dog beach or other area to practice the steps above. Always begin with your dog on leash, as the temptation to run off in a new area filled with distractions may be too great.

    • 8

      Allow your dog to greet other dogs and examine the environment. Whenever he returns to you, whether on his own or when you call, shower him with praise and treat him.

    • 9

      Walk your dog on the long cord in a low traffic area, calling him to you from time to time. The reward for coming back to you will reinforce the behavior as a positive one and encourage your dog not to wander too far.

    Off Leash

    • 10

      Visit the public area with the least distractions for your dog's first time off leash. You want to set him up for success.

    • 11

      Release your dog from his leash. If you feel he is on the verge of running off or getting into a questionable area, give your dog the "Come" command. Always praise your dog, and treat when possible, for obeying.

    • 12

      Reinforce the benefit of paying attention to you by treating your dog whenever he returns on his own. Random "Come" commands are helpful, too, but use sparingly and always release the dog to play again after he obeys.