The sooner you start training your puppy to walk with a leash
the sooner he will be able enjoy a walk with you. Training him
in this manner is not always an easy task. Your new puppy may
become afraid of the collar and leash, mostly because it is a
totally new concept to him. You should introduce these items in
a loving and calm way so that the experience is a positive one
for him.
It is a good idea to make sure you buy him a collar with an I.D.
tag, a short leash, and his favorite treat before you start the
training session. You need to make sure you purchase a regular
collar, one that will last him until he grows to adulthood.
Choke collars are not necessary for this type of training. All
that's needed is a little patience, some positive reinforcement,
and the basic supplies mentioned above.
You can begin the training process by gently putting the collar
comfortably and securely around his neck. At first he may paw at
the collar and roll around, but remember not laugh at him as
this will only encourage him to continue. Remember also not to
punish or scold him as this will only make the leash training
more difficult. After putting it succesfully around the puppies
neck, you will notice that after a few minutes of trying to
remove it himself he will suddenly forget that he is wearing a
collar.
As soon as the puppy accepts the collar, you can then attach the
leash. Please do not pull it in the beginning, just let him walk
around wearing it for a little bit. Try to do this indoors with
your supervision so the puppy wont get tangled around an object
and potentially become hurt. Let your canine friend wear it for
a few minutes at first then take it off. This step should be
repeated often as you begin the training session. Also consider
attaching the leash to his collar at his mealtimes to help him
associate it with something pleasant.
As soon as your puppy is comfortable wearing the leash you can
pick up the other end. At first don't walk. Just let him lead
you around if he would like to. Do not put your puppy in the
position where he wants to pull hard or restrain himself. Begin
by luring him towards you, and when he does shower him with lots
of praise and if possible a treat. If he doesn't come towards
you at first please don't punish or scold him that will only
make him afraid of the leash more than he already is. As he
begins to walk without tugging and pulling, keep practicing with
him in a familiar area free of distractions. After succesfully
completing this you can slowly widen the walking area.
When your puppy has conquered wearing the collar and leash
succesfully, you both are ready to learn how to manipulate
stairs. Remember to keep using alot of patience and
encouragement as you train your puppy to climb stairs. Try to
find a wide, inviting staircase and sit at the base of the steps
with him. At first, gradually go up one step at a time. Make
sure you encourage him to follow by calmly using your voice and
a treat. When he succesfully starts to follow, make a huge fuss
telling him what a good puppy he is and offer him the treat.
Keep repeating this step until he is no longer scared of the
stairs.
Leash training your puppy can be challenging but it is
absolutely necessary for his safety. Keep in mind that all new
puppies are a huge responsibility and this task is only a small
portion of the training your furry friend will need as he makes
his transition from a rambunctious puppy to a well behaved
adult.
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