How do I get my puppy used to walking on a leash?
Practice attaching a light leash to your puppy’s collar and encourage them to walk around the room. Initially, allow your puppy to drag the leash along the floor. Next, pick up the end of the leash and encourage your puppy to come toward you.
As your puppy moves forward, praise and reward them. If your puppy sits and refuses to move, change direction and call your puppy towards you with an enthusiastic tone of voice. When your puppy comes, praise and reward them.
Keep practice sessions short and fun, so that your puppy enjoys them and views the leash in a positive way.
How do I stop my puppy from pulling on the leash?
Your puppy should learn that pulling on the leash results in stopping, rather than going forward.
Attach a leash to your puppy's collar and then encourage your puppy to stand near your side. Attract your puppy’s attention by saying their name and then start walking forward. When your puppy is walking by your side without pulling, praise and reward them.
If your puppy pulls on the leash, stop so that your puppy cannot continue forward. You can then encourage your puppy back to your side and begin moving forward again. It can help to lure your puppy into position with a treat or a toy.
Special harnesses and halters are available which can help prevent large or strong puppies from pulling on the leash. These may be useful but should not be used as a substitute for training a puppy to walk without pulling.
