How to leash train a puppy at 3 months old? - briefly
At three months old, begin leash training your puppy by introducing them to the collar and leash indoors. Gradually increase the duration of walks, rewarding calm behavior with treats and praise.
How to leash train a puppy at 3 months old? - in detail
Training a 3-month-old puppy to walk on a leash is an essential step in their development, promoting safety and control during outings. This process requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Here's a detailed guide to help you achieve this:
Firstly, ensure your puppy is comfortable with the collar. Introduce it gradually by placing it around their neck for short periods initially, increasing the duration as they become accustomed to it. Make sure the collar fits well; you should be able to comfortably slip two fingers between the collar and the puppy's neck.
Next, introduce the leash. Let your puppy explore it with their nose and paws while offering praise and treats for showing interest. Attach the leash to the collar and let your puppy drag it around indoors or in a secure outdoor area. This helps them get used to the sensation of having something attached to their collar.
Once comfortable, start short training sessions. Hold the leash loosely and call your puppy's name. When they turn towards you, reward them with a treat and praise. Gradually increase the distance between you and your puppy during these sessions, always ensuring that the leash remains slack. This teaches your puppy to associate their name with positive experiences and encourages them to check in with you.
Introduce the "let's go" command. Hold a treat close to your puppy's nose, then move it forward, encouraging them to follow. As they walk towards the treat, say "let's go." Reward your puppy when they take a few steps in the right direction. Repeat this process regularly, gradually increasing the distance and distractions as your puppy becomes more proficient.
Practice loose-leash walking indoors first. With your puppy on a leash, walk around your home, changing directions frequently. Whenever your puppy pulls ahead, stop and call them back to you. Once they return, praise them and resume walking. This teaches your puppy that pulling on the leash stops the fun, while staying beside you keeps it going.
Gradually introduce outdoor walks. Begin in a quiet area with minimal distractions. Keep sessions short (5-10 minutes) to avoid overwhelming your puppy. As your puppy's skills improve, gradually increase the duration and introduce more challenging environments.
Always remember that consistency is key. Ensure all family members use the same commands and reward system. This helps your puppy understand what is expected of them in various situations.
Lastly, be patient and positive. Puppies learn best when they are happy and comfortable. Never punish your puppy for pulling or not following commands. Instead, redirect their attention and reward good behavior. With time and practice, your 3-month-old puppy will become a confident and well-behaved walking companion.