Leash Training a Puppy: From First Walk to Loose Leash

Before the First Walk

Before heading outside, let your puppy get comfortable wearing a harness and leash indoors. Put the harness on, give treats, and let them drag a lightweight leash around (supervised) for a few minutes each day. This removes the novelty before adding the challenge of the outdoors.

Step 1: Indoor Practice

In a quiet room, hold the leash and take a few steps. When your puppy walks beside you without pulling, mark with "yes" and treat. If they pull, stop moving and wait for them to look back at you or loosen the leash. Reward the slack.

Step 2: Yard or Hallway

Move to a slightly more interesting environment. Keep treats flowing for walking at your side. Change direction frequently — this keeps your puppy engaged and teaches them to pay attention to where you are going.

Step 3: Low-Distraction Outdoors

Choose a quiet street or time of day. Your puppy will want to sniff everything — and that is okay. Allow designated "sniff breaks" as rewards. Alternate between structured walking (by your side) and free sniffing.

Step 4: Adding Distractions

Gradually introduce busier environments. Increase the distance from distractions (other dogs, bikes, people) and reward focus. If your puppy pulls toward something, stop and wait, or redirect with a treat lure.

Equipment Matters

A front-clip harness gives you more control without putting pressure on the throat. Avoid retractable leashes for training — a standard 6-foot leash provides the right balance of freedom and control.

The "Be a Tree" Method

When your puppy pulls, simply stop and stand still like a tree. Wait for them to look at you or let the leash go slack, then mark and reward. This teaches them that pulling makes the walk stop, while loose leash walking makes it continue.

Patience Is Key

Leash training takes weeks of consistent practice. Sessions should be short (10-15 minutes) and always end on a positive note. Puppies under 16 weeks should focus on harness comfort and short neighborhood explorations rather than structured walking.