You’ve heard it said that having a new puppy is like having a new baby in the house – you have to teach them everything, and they seem to cry a lot. While we adore our newest canine additions, it can be frustrating to try to teach them some of the behaviors that they will need to function as a part of our family. Basic puppy training involves a lot of cleaning up messes, taking away chewed up shoes, and comforting a pup who misses their litter.
Basic puppy training also often includes teaching your puppy to walk outside on a leash, and can cause an owner fits if they don’t know some of the tricks to training. Here are a few tips to help you teach your puppy to walk beside you happily on a leash, one of the best bonding activities you can share with your fur-babies.
While most dog parents complain of having a champion race dog on their hands – meaning they pull you along at top speed – puppy owners often have the opposite problem. Puppies normally in constant motion seem to freeze when the leash goes on. They sit down and refuse to budge. Why do they do it – and what is an owner to do?
- What is Around My Neck? Just the feel of the leash around the neck is enough to spook some puppies, and they stop in their tracks. An owner gently pulling on them to encourage them to move only intensifies the confusing experience. So before attempting to take your dog for a walk on a leash, let them get used to having the leash on when in the comfort of your home. (always supervised, of course!)Â Put the leash on, and when they seem comfortable, pick up the end and call them to you. Lavish them with praise, or even give treats when they come to you from the other end of the leash. Once they master staying close to you indoors, take the game to the backyard, and eventually, the sidewalk. Expert Tip: Many dog owners opt for the most sturdy collar and leash to keep their puppy safe, but to the dog a heavy collar can feel like an anchor and be very uncomfortable. Find a lightweight collar and no-pull harness and you are likely to have a much better experience.
- But the Big World is Scary! Moving a puppy out of their comfort zone into the big wide world can be overwhelming to them, especially if not socialized as a very young pup. They are likely not only afraid of the leash, but of the passing car, or the other dogs walking by. Take them outside with the leash on, but don’t force a walk. Just let them look around, sniff whatever they want, and explore a bit. Reward them for walking over to you, or for not barking at the passing car. Gradually move them towards a walk once they are used to the environment.
- Â I’m Having Too Much Fun! Often, puppies (and older dogs) simply don’t want to leave the place they are, which offers comfort and fun in their minds. If your dog of any age is reluctant to leave your home – or the dog park – you can combine a few training tricks. Work on getting them to focus on you and not be distracted first, then lead them away from the place you are by tossing treats in the direction you want to go. Evenutally they will understand all of the coomands in concert, and you can enjoy a great walk together.
Let’s face it, even the most basic puppy training can be exhausting. If you need help training your puppy and live in the Sarasota, Bradenton or Palmetto area, come visit us at Gulf Coast K9 Dog Training. Our puppy training classes will help your newest addition to fit right into your family, without stress or fear. Whatever your need, we are here to help with obedience, training, and play care options for every dog.
