Leash Training

Leash Training Once your pup accepts the collar, put her leash on and then just sit and watch. Obviously, do this indoors or in a secure confined area. Let puppy drag the leash around on her own but keep a close eye on her so that she doesn't tangle or get hurt. Leave it on for just a few minutes at first. Later, repeat the exercise for longer periods of time. Put your pup on leash during mealtimes, so she associates the leash with a pleasant event. If she is very fearful of the leash, you may want to put it next to the food bowl for a while before attaching it to her collar. Eventually she will see that no harm is coming and there indeed is nothing to be afraid of. When you are sure she is completely comfortable walking around with the leash on, pick up the other end for a few minutes. Do not try walking her yet. Just hold on to the other end and let her lead you around. Try not to get into a position that will make her pull or strain on the leash or she will probably become afraid of it again. If she sits down, that is okay. You just sit down, too. Try backing up and enticing her to come towards you. If she hesitates, don't pull or drag her by the leash. Try luring her over to you with a food treat or a toy. When she starts to walk, praise her profusely so she knows how happy you are. Give her lots of time to get used to his leash and always try to make it a pleasant experience. Give your pup lots of practice getting used to walking on leash in her own home, since it is a familiar environment with minimal distractions. When she is comfortable indoors, try going outdoors. Again, begin in an area with few distractions such as your front or back yard. When the two of you have mastered this, you are ready for places where there are more distractions. This exercise won't be difficult, since you've both had lots of practice beforehand at getting it right. If your pup is biting and chewing the leash, try applying bitter apple, Tabasco or some other unpleasant tasting (but nontoxic) substance to the leash. Reapply before every outing. Remember to always walk your dog on-leash. A dog off-leash is always in danger; accidents happen very quickly. Your dog's safety as well as compliance with your local leash law, is your responsibility.  

This article was published on Sunday 22 October, 2006.
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