Many dog owners assume their canine companions instinctively know how to walk politely on a leash. However, this essential skill requires dedicated training. Teaching your dog to walk calmly beside you is crucial for enjoyable outings and a stronger bond. Dog training expert Kathy Santo, a columnist for AKC Family Dog, shares valuable insights and practical steps to establish a solid foundation for leash walking. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring your dog becomes a well-behaved walking partner. how to learn dog to walk on leash
Introducing the Collar/Harness and Leash
The first step in leash training is to acclimate your puppy to wearing a collar or harness and a leash. Allow your puppy to wear these items for short periods inside the house while engaging in positive activities like playing and receiving treats. The goal is for your puppy to associate the collar and leash with pleasant experiences, such as food and fun.
Teaching a Cue for Attention
Establish a clear sound cue that signals to your puppy that a treat is coming. This could be a clicker sound, a verbal cue like “yes,” or even a tongue click. In a quiet environment free from distractions, put the leash and collar on your puppy. Make your chosen sound cue. The instant your puppy turns their head or looks at you, immediately reward them with a high-value treat. Repeat this process several times. Your puppy will soon begin to associate the sound with your attention and will eagerly come to you for a reward.
Encouraging Your Puppy to Come to You
Once your puppy consistently responds to the cue, begin to incorporate movement. While they are approaching you on the leash, take a few steps backward and then reward them when they reach you. Gradually increase the distance you back up. The objective is for your puppy to not only hear the cue but also to actively come to you and walk with you for a few paces. Remember that puppies have limited attention spans, so keep training sessions short and engaging. Always end on a positive note while your puppy is still motivated and eager to continue.
Practicing Indoors
Before venturing outdoors, practice leash walking in a low-distraction environment, such as inside your home. Your puppy is still learning to manage the sensation of the leash and collar. Offer plenty of treats and praise as they walk with you. This indoor practice helps solidify their understanding of the cue and the expectation of walking alongside you.
Transitioning to Outdoor Walks
Once your puppy is comfortable with leash walking indoors, it’s time to introduce them to the exciting world outside. The outdoor environment presents numerous new sights, sounds, and smells that can be highly intriguing to your puppy. Patience is key during these initial outdoor sessions. Keep walks short and focused. If you notice your puppy about to lunge at something or become distracted, use your cue sound and immediately move a few steps away. Reward them for following you. By consistently redirecting their attention, you reinforce the desired behavior and prevent them from getting overwhelmed by distractions.
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Leash-Training Troubleshooting
As your puppy matures and encounters new environments and stimuli, you may face some common leash-training challenges. Teaching loose-leash walking is not only more enjoyable for both you and your dog but is also a prerequisite for passing the Canine Good Citizen test. The AKC GoodDog! Helpline offers practical solutions for these issues.
Managing Pulling
If your dog tends to pull ahead, practice the “be a tree” technique. Stand completely still and refuse to move until your dog returns to your side. Avoid yanking or jerking the leash, as this can be counterproductive. For persistent pullers, consider using training tools like front-hook harnesses or head halters, which are designed to discourage pulling. dog training everett wa
Addressing Lunging Behavior
If your dog exhibits lunging behavior towards other dogs, vehicles, or distractions, a proactive approach is essential. Try to redirect their attention with a treat before they have a chance to lunge. Increasing the distance between your dog and the trigger can also help. Stay vigilant and anticipate potential triggers to manage your dog’s reactions effectively. While herding breeds may be more prone to this behavior, any dog can react fearfully or excitedly to unfamiliar stimuli. awesome dawgs dog training llc
Dealing with Barking
Barking at other dogs during walks can sometimes stem from a lack of adequate exercise. Ensure your dog receives sufficient mental and physical stimulation tailored to their breed and age. If barking persists, employ the same strategy used for lunging: create distance and offer treats to redirect their attention before they start barking. With consistent practice, your dog will learn to focus on you when encountering other dogs. dog training chapel hill
Over time, you can gradually reduce the frequency of treats and the amount of intervention needed. It’s always a good practice to have treats on hand to randomly reward good leash-walking behavior, reinforcing the positive habits your dog has developed. For ongoing support and personalized advice on training and behavioral issues, consider contacting the AKC GoodDog! Helpline. veteran service dog training near me
