How to Leash Train Your Excited Puppy or Older Dog

Does your puppy sit down, back up or pull to shake loose of the leash?  Or worse yet does your older dog pull you down the street at breakneck speed when you put the leash on its collar?  A few simple training sessions can help you walk your dog safely on a leash.

First, choose the proper leash. This article may help: Choosing the Right Leash For Your Puppy

Putting a leash on your new puppy for the first time

Putting a leash on an excited new puppy usually starts a chewing frenzy including rolling on the ground. Everything just short of a temper tantrum, especially if you hold the leash taut with no slack for the puppy.

A young puppy (under 12 weeks old) will have no idea what this rope around the neck is all about, and will understandably freak out. Leash training a puppy this young is not required as they will usually not venture far by themselves.

How to Choose the Right Leash for Training Your Puppy or Adopted Older Dog

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Before you start leash training your puppy, make sure that you are using the proper equipment. Do not start with an extension leash; these are strictly for playtime walking. Your puppy or newly adopted older dog needs to understand that the person holding the leash is in charge of the walk direction and pace.

Find a specialty pet shop in your area, preferably specializing in dog collars and leashes. The more specialized the store, the more knowledgeable the staff (hopefully). Many specialty dog shops also allow you to bring your puppy in for fittings, just make sure that the shop is clean prior to bringing in your new puppy.

Get a leash that comfortably comes to your waist when the dog is standing at your side or slightly behind you. For example; hold the leash handle in your left hand (at your waist), run the leash across your body to your right hand (at your waist) and let the leash fall down your right leg (forming an upside down L) to the height of your dog's neck when standing next to you.