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Dog Leash Training Techniques
Dog leash training will make your puppy more obedient and easier to handle. While it's not complicated, to achieve the results in the shortest time possible, you need to avoid some common mistakes.
A lot of dog owners don't use the leash when they take their dogs outside. The most common excuse is that the dog, when on leash, always pulls.
I can only smile in response. Of course the dog pulls, what else is he supposed to do if he was not trained to walk on leash!
Taking your dog outside in a public place without a leash is dangerous. He can get lost, stolen or hit by a car. And, in most places, it's also a law to have your dog on a leash when in a public place.
Without wasting any more time, let's go straight to…
Dog Leash Training
Before you begin leash training your dog, make sure he is used to wearing a dog collar. I also feel it's a good idea to begin leash training indoors.
Some leashes are designed specifically for leash training and are not suited for everyday use. Others are well suited for everyday use but are not too convenient for training. Visit dog leash page to learn how to buy the right leash for your needs.
As a first step, attach the leash to the collar and just let your puppy get used to it. You can leave the leash on the floor and observe what happens. If your puppy tries to bite or chew on it, don't let him do it. And keep a close eye on your puppy to make sure he does not strangle himself.
At first, keep the leash on for only a couple of minutes, just enough for him to get used to it. Gradually, increase the time.
To make leash training your dog easier, try to associate it with something pleasurable for him. Give him some treats right after you attach the leash to the collar. Put him on a leash during his mealtimes. Eventually, he will accept a dog leash as something that is nothing to be scared of.
When your puppy is comfortable with the leash, pick up the other end. Let your puppy be in charge and lead you, but don't let him strain the leash, as it may scare or injure him. Your goal is to make this experience as stress free as possible. And don't forget to praise your puppy!
Leash Walking
After your puppy is comfortable with you holding the other end of the leash, you are ready to move to the next stage of dog leash training.
You are now ready to teach your puppy to walk on a leash. But don't forget who is walking whom!
As with any training, the best time for dog leash training is when your puppy is bored and/or hungry.
Choose a quiet, distraction free environment. With the leash in hand, hold a treat under his nose and make couple of steps. Praise and give him the treat if he follows you.
As your puppy begins to follow you on more regular basis, increase the number of steps. Do it gradually. Don't go from two steps to ten steps. Make the change in pace unnoticeable to your puppy.
If your puppy tries to pull in the opposite direction, just stop. Ignore him until he is calm and then, repeat the exercise.
Before we leave the subject of dog leash training, I want to remind you to always use the dog leash when taking your puppy outdoors.
A puppy that is off leash is in danger of running away, being stolen or hit by a car. By keeping your puppy on a leash, you are not only complying with the law but also keeping him safe.
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