How to Leash Train Boxer Puppies

Boxers are known for their intelligence and athleticism. Because of their size and musculature, Boxer puppies have a tendency to pull on their leashes and drag their handlers around while on walks. Proper leash training begins when the dog is still a puppy and is small enough for you to control while teaching proper leash habits. Taking your Boxer puppy on frequent walks will help him to get accustomed to the leash and your verbal commands, and will allow you to stop any tendency to run or pull while your dog is still small.

Instructions

    • 1

      Hold the the leash tightly in your dominant hand. Put your thumb through the leash's loop and grip it. This will give you the strongest hold over the leash and will not hurt your wrist if your Boxer puppy darts from side to side.

    • 2

      Grip lower on the leash with your non-dominant hand so your puppy may wander in only about a 1-foot radius on your non-dominant side. She should stay on this side and close to you for the entire walk. Giving her a short, taut leash will encourage her not to run.

    • 3

      Wait until your Boxer puppy is calm and the leash is slack before beginning a walk. Boxers are athletic, and will be eager to bolt immediately. Stand still until she stops pulling on the leash, then slowly begin walking with the puppy on your non-dominant side.

    • 4

      Pull back lightly on the leash while giving the verbal command "heel" if your Boxer puppy starts pulling the leash. Boxers, especially puppies, will have the desire to explore the world around them on the walk. While the dog should be given some leeway on where she is allowed to wander, she should never pull you on the leash or try to go faster than you are going.

    • 5

      Stop walking and gently turn your dog onto her back if she continues to pull on the leash and will not respond to your "heel" command. Hold her down on her back until she calms and does not struggle. Then, allow her to get back to her feet and begin walking again, repeating the "heel" command and lightly tugging the leash if she continues to pull.

    • 6

      Walk only when the leash is slack. A taut leash means your Boxer puppy is pulling you, which energetic breeds like Boxers will try to do. Walk several feet with a slack leash, then pause to reward your puppy with petting, a treat or a toy.