Easy Leash Training for Dogs Unfamiliar with Leashes

Easy leash training for dogs unfamiliar with leashes

This works  with dogs of all ages. Place a soft buckle collar on your dog. Make sure that you can easily slide two fingers under the collar. Attach a six foot flat light-weight leash to the collar.

1)    drop the leash
2)    patiently wait for your dog to start moving
3)    as your dog moves away from you, step on the leash
4)    as soon as your dog reacts take your foot off of the leash
5)    as your dog turns to ‘see who done it’ smile and praise him
6)    repeat this sequence until he no longer reacts when you step on the leash
7)    picking up the handle of the leash turn your back to your dog
8)    pat your leg and verbally encourage him to walk with you
9)    praise as he walks – if he does not move give a gentle tug at his neck level towards you (still face away from him)
Remember - Avoid steady pulling – instead give gentle short invitational tugs
Remember - If he ‘overreacts’ return to step one and repeat the sequence

He will be up and walking in very little time! He will be ready to learn to walk beside you once he is consistently pulling you!

Be watching for our upcoming podcast on teaching your dog to walk with a loose leash!