How Old Should a Puppy Be Before Leash Training?

Puppies can begin supervised leash training when they are still with their mothers at about 6 or 7 weeks old. They can get used to a collar at this age, but they need supervision so they do not get it caught on anything and choke.

  1. Distraction

    • Puppies will try to remove collars and chest harnesses. A good way to get a puppy used to a collar is to play with him while he is wearing it.

    Introduction

    • According to the "ASPCA Complete Guide to Dogs," a good way to let a puppy know a leash is harmless is to attach one to his collar and let him drag it around during supervised times.

    Next Step

    • While your puppy is walking around dragging the leash, pick up the leash. Let him continue to wander where he wants to while you praise him and offer him treats.

    Considerations

    • Some breeds of puppies may still be able to slip out of a collar even when they are several months old. If this case, use a chest harness instead.

    Warning

    • Use only a standard buckle collar on puppies, never a choke chain or chain-link collar.