How To Train Your Dog To Use A Dog Lead

If you’re wondering how to get your dog to walk using a dog lead, please read on.  In this article we will cover choosing dog collars and leads and the steps you need to follow to train your dog to use a lead.  By the end of this article you know everything you need to get started teaching your dog to use a dog lead.

Choosing Dog Collars and Leads

If your puppy is over 8 weeks old, he’s ready for a collar and dog training lead. A lightweight collar with a nylon buckle or quick release collar is one of the better choices for a first collar. Never use a choke chain type on young puppies.

Different types of dog leads work best with certain dogs. Choose a nylon or cotton dog lead if you have a small dog who doesn’t pull too much. If you’ve got a large dog or a dog that pulls aggressively, consider a leather dog lead collar or possibly a chain collar and a heavy duty dog lead made from nylon or leather.

Before You Start Training

Make sure your puppy or dog is used to the dog lead collar. Many people get discouraged when they try to train their dog to use a lead when problem is really that the dog is not accustomed to the collar. Let your puppy wear the collar as much as possible until they are completely used to and comfortable with it. Make sure you remove the collar if they are going to be in a crate or caged for any period of time to prevent snagging and choking.

Training Your Dog to Use a Dog Training Lead

1. Attach the lead to your puppy’s collar and let go of the lead. Let your puppy get used to the feel of the lead by dragging it around the house and the yard. If you do this for 10-15 minutes a day for a week or so, he will become accustomed to the dog training lead. Don’t let him chew on the lead and if he strongly objects to the dog lead, try playing fetch with him or distracting him in a positive way.
2. Once your puppy is used to the dog lead, pick up the other end and hold it, just following your puppy around with lots of slack on the lead. If the puppy pulls, don’t worry and don’t make comments to the dog, just let him get used to the feel of having you on the other end of the lead.
3. When the puppy starts trying to drag you around everywhere, it’s time to start the real training. Get prepared by loading up on treats or a special toy to reward good behavior. Then, go for a walk. Head in a specific direction. If your dog follows along without complaint, praise your puppy enthusiastically. If he objects, pulls the other way or sits and won’t move, bribe him with the treat or toy to get him moving in the right direction, and then give lots of praise. Give praise only when your dog is moving, never when he’s pulling or sitting.
4. Don’t pull hard or jerk on the dog training lead – this will just make your puppy afraid and can possibly lead to a fear of dog leads that can be difficult to cure.

Teaching your dog to walk using a lead is a fun and easy process. Hopefully this guide will have you walking with your dog on a dog training lead in no time!

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