To train your 9-week-old puppy to walk on a leash, it is important to introduce them to the collar, harness, and leash gradually. Start by allowing your puppy to sniff and investigate the collar or harness before gently fastening it around their neck or body. Make sure it is secure but not too tight. Next, attach the leash to the collar or harness.
Once your puppy is comfortable with wearing the collar or harness and leash, you can begin teaching them a cue or command to associate with walking on a leash. You can use a word like “walk” or “let’s go” as your cue. Say the cue in a calm and positive tone of voice.
To start the training process, make it a game for your puppy to come to you when you call their name or use their recall cue. You can offer a treat or use a clicker to mark the behavior when they come to you. This will help your puppy associate coming to you with something positive.
Practice walking indoors in a quiet and familiar area where there are fewer distractions. Hold the leash loosely and encourage your puppy to walk beside you using your cue. Reward them with treats or praise when they stay close to you or walk nicely on the leash. It is important to be patient and consistent during this training process.
Once your puppy is comfortable walking indoors, you can start taking them outside for short walks. Start in a quiet and low-traffic area to minimize distractions. Again, use your cue to encourage your puppy to walk beside you and reward them for good behavior. Gradually increase the duration and distance of your walks as your puppy becomes more confident and comfortable on the leash.
If your puppy starts pulling on the leash, it is important not to continue walking forward. Instead, turn yourself into “a tree” by stopping and standing still. This teaches your puppy that pulling will not get them where they want to go. Once your puppy stops pulling and the leash becomes loose, you can start walking again.
Consistency is key when training your puppy to walk on a leash. Set aside regular training sessions each day and be patient with your puppy as they learn. Remember to make the training process fun and rewarding for both you and your puppy.