Boxers are dogs who like to explore and be on the move. With so much to see and sniff, it's easy to see why. For this reason, it is important to leash train your boxer or you may end up with a dog who runs away.
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Assert Your Dominance
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In order for your boxer to trust you and behave in the way that you command, you must first show him that you are in control. Boxers, in general, like to please their owners, but if a boxer thinks that he can be in charge, then he will do whatever he can to win that commanding role. Therefore, you must first designate the pack leader position. If you have a young boxer puppy, hold him in your arms as you would a baby, with his belly facing upwards. Holding him in this way puts him in a submissive position. When you feed your dog, handle his food so that your scent is on it. In addition, teach your boxer that he must have permission to eat before he can do so. This can be done by commanding your boxer to sit for a short length of time before you allow him to eat. Once your boxer knows that you are in charge, he will be easier to train.
Leash Training Your Boxer
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Leash training should begin as early as 8 weeks on a boxer puppy. If your boxer is older, this type of training can still be accomplished, however, it is easier to do so on a dog this young. Initially, your boxer will most likely try to pull while on the leash, therefore, wearing a harness may be the safest way to go, as a collar could cause damage to the neck when he tries to pull. Let your boxer puppy wear the harness around the house without the lead attached to get him more comfortable with it. He will probably protest wearing the harness at first, and this is normal. Praise him with treats and affection while he has the equipment on, so that he will associate wearing the harness with things that he likes. In addition, begin training him with a leash that is four to six feet in length.
Since boxers are so playful and energetic, it is best to train in a place that is quiet, with minimal distractions. In addition, it may be helpful to train your puppy after he is already a bit tired out from playing. Stand next to your boxer so that the leash is in your right hand and he is in your left. Hold a toy in your left hand and begin to slowly walk with the toy in front of him, encouraging him to follow the toy. Once he begins to move, say a command, such as "heel." Eventually, if you are consistent with using just that word when you walk, he will begin to associate that command with walking on that leash. After your boxer puppy has successfully walked a few feet, let him play with the toy and give him a treat and praise. Repeat this process a few times each training session. Boxer puppies typically have short attention spans, therefore, training sessions should only last a short period of time.
Considerations
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Do not allow your boxer puppy to pull you. Your puppy should be taught that only a slacked leash can go forward, not one that is tense from being pulled. If he begins to pull, stay where you are and hold your ground. When he eventually stops pulling and leash is relaxed, encourage him to return to you and start the leash training process again.
Building Your Relationship
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Once you and your boxer have mastered leash training, you can use this skill to teach other commands, such as "come." Walking with your boxer is not only essential to his well-being, but it will also build your relationship. Walk with your boxer next to you in order to assert your leadership role and to tighten your bond.
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