Basic Leash Training for Puppies

Leash training, whether for a puppy or grown dog, is one of the most valuable tools in your arsenal of training techniques. You have nothing to fear with leash training for your puppy.

The leash can allow you and your young dog great freedom while still leaving you in complete control. As a training tool, you can use it informally during walks to reinforce a number of essential commands. Now, keep in mind that the leash, as with all training aids and approaches, should be used with firm gentleness. Never use the leash with anger or cruelty. Let’s take a look as some basic, but essential commands that the leash is ideal for reinforcing:

Name: Call out your puppy’s name enthusiastically: If he looks at you, praise him. If he ignores you, gently snap the leash, say “No,” and then praise him once you have his attention.

Wait (or stay): Begin to command your puppy to stop 3 feet in front of you with this command. If your dog continues forward, gently snap the leash and say “No, Wait.” Increase your distance to 6 feet, 8 feet, 12 feet, 16 feet, and 26 feet in front of you.

Sit-Stay: Use the Flexi-Lead to increase your distance control. Increase your distance incrementally.

Heel: Many people use this command to call the puppy back to your side. Call out his name and then command “Heel” as you slap your leg. Praise your puppy as he responds; then walk a short distance before you stop to release him. I actually prefer start this at 4 to 6 months and have the puppy at my side. I have the young dog firmly but gently leashed and on my left. I say “heel,” and then walk at a normal pace for a short distance. I stop and give the sit-stay command. I then praise the dog and may provide a small treat such as a piece of kibble.

No: Whenever he is focusing on something he should not be, gently snap the leash and say “No!” Immediately refocus his attention with a toy, stick, or command.

 

 

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