5 basic leash training steps
Leash training your dog is an important element that is oftentimes neglected or overlooked when you are raising and training your dog. A dog that isnt leash-trained is at risk of getting injured, sometimes seriously, in a dog fight or in traffic. So this aspect in your dogs training is extremely important. The following helpful tips will guide you in leash train your dog.
Gently place the leash on your dog when it is mealtime When they are eating, just let the leash lay at their sides. This teaches them that the leash is associated with something pleasant as well as getting them used to the idea of wearing a leash.
Start holding the leash in your hands After a few days of letting the dog get used to having the leash on, start holding the leash while you follow the dog around in your home. Do this for increasingly longer time periods until the dog becomes comfortable with this idea.
Go outside into an enclosed area A fenced-in backyard is an excellent place for this next step in
leash training. Let the dog roam or run around the yard with the leash still attached to their collar and dragging behind them. Occasionally, youll want to pick up the leash and make the dog aware that you are holding it.
Teach your dog to start following you Next, teach your dog that you are the pack leader and that they should follow you rather than pull you around by the leash. Use positive reinforcement by coaxing with treats and verbally praising them when they follow you.
Teach your dog to stay with you Once your dog is comfortable walking with you while you are holding the leash, start teaching them how to stay close to you. Pull the leash in a clockwise motion if the dog starts to move in a different direction. Praise the dog when they comply so they know that they have done this properly.
Additional considerations
Remember that no two dogs are alike and will learn at different speeds. Therefore, it is extremely important that you are patient with your pooch. Train your dog in outdoor areas that have little of no distractions. If the dog is easily excitable, you should play with them for a while to tire them out somewhat before you take them out for a training session. Here are three additional tips and warnings that you need to consider:
Be consistent always use the same body language, tone of voice, and words.
Be patient this gives your dog the opportunity to learn exactly what you want from them.
Teach them release commands words such as free and ok so that they know when the segment of the training session is completed and that it is alright for them to relax.
