How to Train a Lab Puppy on a Leash

Labrador dogs are intelligent and loyal dogs that are fast learners, which is what makes them easy to train. Training Labrador puppies and dogs requires patience and persistence. The biggest mistake dog owners make during training is sending mixed signals by not being consistent. Use clear and easy commands such as "heel," "go" and "stop" and use them every time. Correct your puppy every time it makes a mistake and praise it every time it does well. This will eliminate confusion and make it clear to the puppy what you want it to do.

Instructions

    • 1

      Place a collar on your puppy to get the puppy accustomed to it. Resist the urge to remove the collar if the puppy bites or scratches at it because this will only reinforce this bad behavior. Distract the puppy with toys or treats until it forgets the collar is even there.

    • 2

      Attach the leash to the collar. Once your Lab puppy is comfortable with its collar, attach the leash to the collar and let it drag while the puppy walks around the house on its own. Watch the puppy carefully so that the leash doesn't get caught on anything and accidentally choke the puppy.

    • 3

      Hold the leash. While holding the leash, walk your dog around the house to get it used to the feeling of you walking beside or behind it with the leash in your control. The puppy may think the leash is a toy at first and may try to bite it, but it will soon grow accustomed to the leash.

    • 4

      Walk at a fast pace. Walking fast will help prevent your dog from being distracted by other scents and sites around you. This will keep your Lab from pulling on the leash and stopping when you don't want it to.

    • 5

      Praise the puppy when it performs well. When your puppy walks beside you without pulling or biting the leash give it treats or praise as a reward. Labradors are intelligent dogs and the puppy will soon realize this is the sort of behavior that pleases you and earns rewards.

    • 6

      Stop walking when the puppy starts to pull. A puppy that is pulling on the leash does not understand that you are in command. Show your puppy who is in control by stopping when it starts to pull and refuse to move until it stops pulling.

    • 7

      Make sudden stops. Check that your puppy is paying attention and respecting you as the leader by stopping suddenly while walking. The puppy should stop as well and wait for you to continue walking. If it doesn't stop and tries to continue walking, wait until the puppy stops pulling and sits or waits for you to walk.