How to Teach a Dog to Walk on a Lead

If you have a dog or a puppy who is not used to a lead or rebels against it, this article will give you the tools to teach the dog to walk on a lead and stay under control.

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Leash Collar

How To Teach A Dog To Walk On A Lead

1. Step 1

   Start out by letting your dog get accustomed to wearing the lead before you try to take him on a walk. Take the lead and show it to your dog; do not try to sneak up on your dog or trick your dog into putting it on. Stay calm and assertive and attach the lead around your dog's neck. If your dog resists, stay calm and try again without getting frustrated. Your dog will feed off of your energy. If you begin to get upset or anxious, you will make your dog react in a negative way, and this will make a lot harder to attach the lead. Take your time and keep trying.

2. Step 2

   Allow your dog to wear the lead around the house without you holding onto the lead, so that your dog has a chance to get used to it. Do this for a day or two or until you see that your dog seems comfortable wearing the lead. Always supervise your dog while wearing the lead like this to avoid accidental injury. If your dog has no problem with you attaching the lead or wearing the lead, then you can begin your walk right away.

3. Step 3

   Start by walking your dog to the front door. Command your dog to sit and wait until you open the door. Do not allow your dog to exit the house first. This is important because it is all about who is in control. If you allow your dog to exit or enter the house first, your dog will believe he is in control. Every time your dog obeys your command, give him or her a treat. This will reinforce the right behavior.

4. Step 4

   Step outside of your door, leaving your dog inside in the "sit" position. If your dog attempts to leave before you do, turn around and walk your dog back inside and command him to sit and wait until you leave out the door first. Repeat this step until your dog follows behind you out the door at your command; this could take several attempts. Stay calm, be firm and do not lose your temper.

5. Step 5

   Hold the lead firm but leave some slack. Do not pull on the lead, as this will make your dog pull back and retard his learning curve. Make sure your dog walks to the side of you or behind you; do not allow him to walk in front of you. When your dog does attempt to pull out in front of you, stop and give the lead a firm, quick tug. Make him return to your side or back behind you, then give slack to the lead again, and continue on your walk. Repeat this technique over and over, stopping for behavior corrections whenever necessary.

6. Step 6

   Stay committed and determined. This skill will not be learned in one day. It will take a week or two of practicing this technique twice a day before your dog is confident on the lead. It is best to go on two 45-minute walks every day to get your dog accustomed to the lead and how to walk on the lead properly.