Teaching a puppy anything requires patience, diligence and consistency. As difficult as the task may seem it is much easier to teach a puppy to walk well on a leash than it is to try to train an older dog already established in his behaviors. That being said, some dogs simply take to the leash without effort, while others may require a bit more time.
If you have just brought a new puppy home, there is no time like the present to start leash training. Here are some tips from the expert dog trainers which you should find useful.
Important Tips While Training Puppies
No matter which behavior you are teaching, puppies respond best to consistency, positivity, and an even tone. Getting angry or punishing your dog while he is learning will only result in the dog fearing you. A calm voice, a smile, and a lot of praise when he performs the desired behavior will go a long way.
- Choosing a Leash: There are many types of leashes and collars to choose from. Remember your puppy will be growing – sometimes at a rapid pace. A collar which can grow with your puppy is a good choice. Collars can be flat and light, positioned around their neck; or a halter collar may work better for a dog who is constantly trying to wriggle his neck out of the collar.
- Let Him Get Acquainted: Wearing the collar around the house will help him get used to the feel of the apparatus before attempting a walk outside. Put the collar on, then play with the puppy, or feed him treats. The idea is to get the puppy’s mind off of the collar, until he barely realizes it is there.
- Give Him Control: Attach the leash, and let the puppy drag it around a bit, playing with him as you do so. Occasionally pick up the leash and call him to you, or walk into another room telling him to follow. Let him gradually get used to the leash, associating it with time spent with his favorite humans.
- Take it Slow: When you first start walking with your puppy, he is likely to get confused, sit down, or pull in the opposite direction. Kneel down and pet him, encouraging him and making him feel comfortable with your presence; then give him effusive praise if he begins to walk with you. Realize that it may take a few attempts before he realizes that he is supposed to walk next to you, but as soon as he does – reward him!
At Gulf Coast K9 Dog Trainers, we know that teaching puppies anything can seem a bit overwhelming. That is why we offer puppy training classes which begin as early as 2 months old. We not only teach the basics of leash training, but food based training; basic obedience commands such as sit, down & place; coping with environmental challenges; dealing with impulse control; general good manners; crate training; and house training.
Puppies are very much like small children. They feel safer, more secure and happier when they understand that there is a structure to their daily routine. By teaching them boundaries and behaviors, they have a much better chance at become happy, well-adjusted members of the family. If you are a Sarasota, Lakewood Ranch or Bradenton area dog owner and are having issues with training puppies or older dogs – give us a call. Our expert dog trainers are dedicated to making your relationship with your pet strong and healthy, through comprehensive obedience training, play care and boarding options.
