How to Train Dogs on a Lead

Walking your dog on a lead should be an enjoyable experience for you and your dog. It shouldn't involve pulling, a battle of wills, lunging or straining. The key to an enjoyable walk with your dog is proper lead walking training. This begins with teaching your dog basic obedience skills. Once these skills are accomplished, you can begin to teach your dog the proper way to walk on a lead.

Things You'll Need

  • Lead
  • Dog treats

Instructions

  1. Introducing a Dog to a Lead

    • 1

      Attach a lightweight lead to your dog's collar, if you are introducing the lead to your dog for the first time.

    • 2

      Drop the lead and allow the dog to drag it behind her in the house for a few minutes. Do not leave the lead attached if you are not home to supervise.

    • 3

      Repeat this process several times a day for a few days until the dog is comfortable with the lead attached to his collar.

    Training a Dog to Walk on a Lead

    • 4

      Teach your dog to sit. Hold a treat above your dog's nose so that his nose points upward. Move the treat backward until the dog moves into a natural sitting position. As soon as his bottom hits the floor, say the word "sit" and give him the treat. Repeat this process in short sessions every day until the dog knows the behavior you expect when you say the word "sit."

    • 5

      Teach your dog to stay. Tell the dog to "sit." Then say the word "stay." Hold your hand up, with your palm pointing toward the dog, at the same time that you say, "stay." Move a couple steps away from the dog and then walk toward her and give her the treat. Lengthen the distance you go from the dog and the amount of time you are away during several training sessions over several days.

    • 6

      Tell the dog to "sit" and "stay" and then attach his lead. If the dog gets excited or gets up from the "sit/stay before you release him, wait until he calmly remains in the "sit/stay" to attach the lead.

    • 7

      Walk the dog. When she pulls or lunges, stand still. Do not move and tell her to "sit/stay." Once she is calm, continue the walk. In the beginning, the walk will go slowly and you may not accomplish a lot of distance. However, it is imperative that you stop walking every time she pulls against the lead.