How to Teach an Older Dog to Walk on a Leash

One of the most difficult lessons for any puppy or dog to learn is how to walk on a leash without pulling its owner. This can be an exhausting process, made even more trying if the dog in question is fully grown and stubborn. Having an adult dog that can walk on a leash properly makes family walks more enjoyable and gives the dog's owner confidence that his dog can be controlled in public.

Things You'll Need

  • Dog collar
  • Leash
  • Dog treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place a collar and leash on the dog while it is doing something pleasant, such eating or chewing on a bone indoors. Allow the dog to wear the collar and let the leash drag on the floor during this time as a way to help the dog associate the leash with a positive experience.

    • 2

      Continue to place the collar and leash on the dog during a pleasant time for three to four days.

    • 3

      Pick up the leash and allow the dog to walk around the home for a few moments while you hold on. This will help the dog gradually become used to the feeling of the leash and collar.

    • 4

      Continue to walk around the house with the dog for longer and longer periods of time during the next three to four days.

    • 5

      Take the dog, with the collar on and leash attached, outdoors and allow it to roam around for approximately 30 minutes. Pick up the leash and walk the dog for a few moments during this time. Keep the dog in a fenced in area if you fear it might run away. Allow the dog to roam outdoors with the collar and leash daily for three to four days.

    • 6

      Take the dog for a short walk. Place the leash in your right hands and tell the dog, "Let's Go." Once the dog walks with you for a few moments without pulling or running, give the dog a treat and praise it.

    • 7

      Take the dog for longer walks over the coming days and weeks. If the dog begins to pull on the leash, stop walking and perform a one-quarter turn and walk in a different direction. The dog will have to stop what it is doing and be pulled gently in your direction, once again reinforcing the idea that it must walk at your side.