How to Leash Train a Puppy Who Doesn't Move on the Leash

Walking on a leash is not a natural thing for a puppy, so it is your responsibility to teach your puppy to do so. With proper training, your puppy will soon get accustomed to the leash. The earlier you start leash training the sooner you will see the results. Leash training your dog is a fairly easy task to accomplish and can be enjoyable for you to get to spend considerable time with your loving companion.

Instructions

    • 1

      Accustom your puppy to a collar or harness around its neck as a first step to leash training. Choose either a harness or collar depending on which is comfortable for you and your dog. Many small dogs prefer to have a harness so the leash doesn't fall on their head. Some owners of large-size dogs choose a harness as it makes it easier for them to handle the dog's strength.

    • 2

      Put the collar around the dog's neck and take time to play with it or feed it so that the dog recognizes the collar as something good and fun. Your puppy may try to scratch the collar or rub against it, but leave it on until the dog forgets about it.

    • 3

      Accustom your puppy to the leash next. Choose a lightweight leash made of fabric or nylon for young puppies instead of a leather or chain leash. Once the puppy sniffs the leash, clip it around its collar.

    • 4

      Walk the puppy indoors first. If the puppy pulls on the leash, give it a small quick tug and walk the dog in a different direction. Wait for the dog to catch up with you instead of dragging it when you turn to walk in the opposite direction. Repeat the tug-and-walk method until the dog understands that you are taking him for a walk and not the dog taking you for a walk. Praise the dog whenever he does the right thing to impress on him that it is that behavior you are expecting from him. Limit the training to brief sessions every day.

    • 5

      Extend leash training walks to the yard and around the house. If the dog pulls on the leash, stop walking and ask the dog to come to you. This way, the dog understands that it is not proper behavior to resist the leash, and walking along with you on a leash is the only thing acceptable.

    • 6

      Be persistent. Continue training your dog until it stops pulling or dragging against the leash.