How to Teach a Puppy to Walk on Leash

Heart
Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Teach a Marker

Marker: sound/hand signal that pinpoints the moment your dog earns a treat. Clicker or "yes"/thumbs up works. Be quick and accurate for effective teaching.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Build a Positive Association

Prepare your dog for outdoor adventures: Get them comfortable with collar, leash, and harness. Start indoors, use treats, and praise. Slowly introduce each item.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Teach Your Dog to Give Attention

Gain your dog's attention before walking: Capture eye contact, mark, and reinforce. Repeat for association. Use cue like "look" or "eyes" before they look at you.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Start Moving by Backing Up

Prevent pulling: Take backward steps, dog follows, mark, reinforce, praise. Increase distance gradually. Alternate with forward steps, reward for staying close.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Practice With "Come"

Teach "come" on leash: Toss treat, pup eats, faces you. Say "come," mark, and reinforce as they move towards you. Repeat as a game.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Gradually Increase Distance

Progress to neighborhood walks: Start with short distance, gradually increase. Constantly mark and reinforce. Practice makes perfect. Stay positive and persistent!

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Start Training From Day One

Guide puppy behavior: Avoid encouraging unwanted actions. Train puppy consistently. Prevent future nuisances.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Keep an Eye on Your Puppy at All Times

Prevent accidents and damage: Confine or tether puppy when unsupervised.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Feed Meals in the Crate

Crate training tips: Feed meals in crate. Close door while eating, open after. Gradually increase time. Take it slowly, avoid spooking pup.

Dot

Reasons Couples Counseling Is Essential for a Relationship 

Heart
Dot