Puppy Leash Training – The Kind Gentle Way To Train Your Puppy

When it comes to having a well behaved dog, it’s best to start when he’s a puppy. The first step is to get him to accept his collar and leash. You can begin puppy leash training almost as soon as you bring him home.

Training your dog to become accepting of a collar and leash is important because it will set you up to be in control. Once your dog accepts that you are in charge, training has a much better chance of success.

As soon as you can get your puppy to live with his collar and lead, you will be able to start focusing on other areas. Here’s how to train him to accept his collar and lead.

Be sure to buy a collar that is puppy size. Don’t get one that you think he will grow into. If it’s too loose he won’t keep it on. But on the other hand, it should be big enough that you can adjust it for awhile. The rule of thumb for sizing is that you are able to fit two of your fingers comfortably between the collar and his neck.

When you initially begin to use the collar, it will feel strange to your puppy. Give him lots of reassurance and attention to take his mind off it. It will take time before he gets used to the feel of the collar. Once he becomes used to simply having the collar on, you can move forward in training your puppy. Leash training, without a doubt, is easier if you have given your new puppy lots of time just getting used to wearing the collar.

The next step is to attach a short, very lightweight leash to his collar. The leash should not be longer than about three feet. Allow him to just drag it around for short periods of time. The idea is for him to get used to the feel of having something attached to his collar.

It’s important to watch him carefully when he is dragging his lead around. You don’t want him to get stuck and become upset or afraid, which might happen if he gets stuck for any length of time. You want this to be a positive experience so it will be enough that he feels a slight restriction very briefly, but no more than that. So be sure to quickly free him.

It won’t take long before he gets used to the feel of his leash. When this happens, instead of letting the leash drag freely, attach one end of the lead to you. Allow him to explore and get himself stuck like before. But this time, do not go to him to untangle his leash.

Instead try to help him get rid of his distress by crouching down and calling his name. Entice him to get himself unstuck and to come to you by offering some toy or treat. Give him his treat and lots of praise when he does come to you. Be sure to continue with this every day for short periods. After a few successes each day, remove the leash from his collar, but leave his collar on at all times.

You will know that your puppy leash training has been a success when he routinely comes when called after reaching the end of the leash. With this success, the rest of his puppy training will go so much more smoothly.

A comfortable bed is a great way to show your dog that you appreciate his hard work during your training sessions. Dogs love to feel warm and cozy. A heated dog bed is the ultimate in comfort. Some dogs prefer the soft padded cushion and the bolster which doubles as a pillow in a bolster dog bed.

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