How to Train Your Dog to Walk on a Leash

Training your dog to walk on a leash is an essential skill for both you and your dog. Leash training helps you maintain control over your dog, keeps them safe in public spaces, and is a fantastic way to strengthen the bond between you and your furry friend.

Whether you’re starting with a puppy or retraining an older dog, the principles remain largely the same. In this guide, we will take you step-by-step through the process, addressing common issues.

Why Leash Training is Important

Before diving into the steps, it’s important to understand why leash training is essential. When your dog is walking on a leash properly, it means:

1. Safety: Your dog is less likely to run into dangerous situations, such as traffic or encounters with other animals.
2. Control: You can guide your dog away from distractions and maintain better control when out in public spaces.
3. Bonding: Walking on a leash can be an excellent bonding activity for both you and your dog.
4. Socialization: Leash training introduces your dog to new environments, people, and other dogs, promoting good behavior in public.

Step-by-Step Guide to Leash Training Your Dog

1. Choose the Right Leash and Collar

Before you start training, it’s crucial to choose the right equipment. The right leash and collar can make all the difference in the training process.

• Leash: A standard six-foot leash is ideal for training. It gives your dog enough room to explore but also allows you to maintain control. Avoid retractable leashes during training, as they can make it harder to correct unwanted behavior.
• Collar: A comfortable flat collar or harness is best. Avoid choke chains, prong collars, or shock collars, as these can cause harm to your dog and hinder positive training.

2. Introduce Your Dog to the Leash and Collar

Start by letting your dog become familiar with the collar and leash before going for a walk. Place the collar around your dog’s neck and let them wear it around the house for short periods. This will help them get used to the sensation of having something around their neck.

Once your dog is comfortable with the collar, attach the leash. Let them drag it around the house for a little while under supervision, so they get used to the leash being attached to them.

3. Start Indoors in a Low-Distraction Environment

It’s best to start training indoors, where there are fewer distractions. In a quiet, familiar environment, your dog will be less likely to get distracted by the outside world. Start by calling your dog to you while holding the leash. When they approach, reward them with a treat and lots of praise. This step helps your dog associate the leash with positive experiences.

Once your dog is comfortable walking around with the leash indoors, you can begin practicing basic leash skills, such as walking without pulling.

4. Teach “Loose Leash Walking”

Loose leash walking means that the leash is not taut and your dog is walking beside you, not pulling ahead. Here’s how to encourage this behavior:

• Begin walking in a circle or back and forth in your home. Start with your dog on a leash and begin walking slowly. When they pull, stop walking immediately.
• Reward for staying by your side. Whenever your dog walks beside you without pulling, praise them and give them a treat. If they get distracted and pull, stop walking, and don’t reward them.
• Use the “Let’s Go” command. As you walk, use a consistent command, like “Let’s go,” to encourage your dog to follow your pace. The key is to keep the pace slow and steady at first, so your dog can learn the rhythm.

5. Correct Pulling Behavior

If your dog pulls ahead on the leash, it’s important to gently correct them. Here’s how to do it:

• Stop walking when they pull. If your dog starts pulling on the leash, stop walking immediately. Wait for them to return to you or loosen the tension on the leash before continuing.
• Use a turn-around technique. If your dog is persistent about pulling, make a quick 180-degree turn and walk in the opposite direction. This helps your dog understand that pulling results in going the wrong way.
• Be consistent. Consistency is key to successful training. The more you reinforce that pulling doesn’t get them anywhere, the sooner they’ll understand.

6. Gradually Increase the Distractions

Once your dog is walking nicely on a leash indoors, it’s time to practice outside. Start with a quiet area such as your backyard or a park with few people and animals.

• Keep sessions short at first. Gradually increase the length of your walks as your dog gets better at walking on the leash.
• Reward frequently. Outside, the environment will be full of distractions, so be prepared to reward your dog often for staying by your side and walking calmly.

7. Practice Heel Position

Teaching your dog to “heel” means having them walk next to you with their head aligned with your leg. Here’s how to teach this:

• Start walking and use the command “heel” while gently guiding them with the leash.
• Reward for correct positioning. When your dog is walking in the correct position (next to your leg), give them praise and treats.
• Repeat consistently. Practice this in a variety of environments to help your dog generalize the behavior.

8. Avoid Reinforcing Bad Behavior

Sometimes, dogs may start pulling or misbehaving when they get too excited or distracted. To avoid reinforcing this behavior:

• Do not pull back hard on the leash when your dog pulls. This could create a tug-of-war dynamic, which is not productive.
• Stay calm and patient. Dogs feed off your energy, so if you remain calm and assertive, your dog is more likely to follow your lead.

9. Increase Walk Duration Gradually

As your dog becomes more proficient at walking on the leash, start increasing the duration of your walks. Make sure to keep the walks interesting by changing routes and varying your walking pace.

10. Practice in Different Environments

Once your dog is doing well with walking on a leash in quieter environments, it’s time to introduce new challenges. Practice walking in busier environments with more distractions, such as:

• Busy streets.
• Dog parks.
• Around other dogs.

This will help your dog learn how to maintain their focus on you, even in distracting situations.

READ ALSO: Are Harnesses or Collars Better for Walking Dogs?

Troubleshooting Common Problems

1. Pulling on the Leash

If your dog continues to pull, it’s crucial to remain consistent in your corrections. Avoid reinforcing pulling behavior by stopping or changing direction when they pull.

2. Biting the Leash

Some dogs enjoy chewing on the leash, especially puppies. To discourage this behavior, use a leash that is more durable and can withstand chewing, or consider using a spray that deters chewing. Additionally, keep training sessions short and rewarding.

3. Refusing to Walk

If your dog refuses to walk, it may be due to fear or anxiety. Make sure the collar and leash are properly adjusted and comfortable. Start by encouraging them with treats and praise and avoid forcing them to walk.

FAQs

How long does it take to train a dog to walk on a leash?

The timeline for leash training can vary, but most dogs can learn the basics within a few weeks. However, some dogs may take longer, especially if they have previous habits like pulling. Consistency and patience are key.

What if my dog is afraid of the leash?

If your dog is afraid of the leash, take small steps. Start by letting them get used to the collar and leash without attaching it to a walk. Gradually build up to short training sessions with positive reinforcement to create a more positive association.

Should I train my dog to walk on the left side?

While many people train their dogs to walk on the left side (since it’s common in obedience training), it’s entirely up to you. Choose a side and remain consistent with it.

Can I use a harness instead of a collar?

Yes! Many dogs do well with a harness, especially breeds that are prone to neck injuries or those that pull a lot. A harness can offer better control and prevent strain on your dog’s neck.

My dog is always distracted during walks. How can I fix that?

Dogs, especially puppies, can become distracted easily. To combat this, start with short, focused walks in low-distraction environments. Gradually increase the level of distractions as your dog becomes more focused on you.