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How to Train Your Puppy to Walk on a Leash - Step By Step Guide

Bringing a new puppy into your life is an exciting adventure filled with love, laughter, and learning. Walking on a leash is one of the most important skills you’ll teach your puppy. While it may seem simple, leash training is much more than just wearing a collar and heading out the door. It’s about building trust, encouraging good behaviour, and making every walk an enjoyable experience for both of you.
Whether you’ve got a bouncy bundle of energy or a cautious little pup, learning to walk on a leash is a big milestone in their development. Not only does it help with exercise and socialization, but it also lays the foundation for good manners and a well-behaved companion.

A happy light brown dog wearing a purple harness and a pink collar with a green tag,

Why Leash Training Matters

A well-trained puppy on a leash means peaceful, pleasant walks instead of tug-of-war battles or sudden stops to sniff every leaf. Proper leash skills can prevent pulling, leash aggression, or fearfulness, making strolls more relaxing and fun. Most importantly, leash training strengthens your bond as your puppy learns to trust your guidance and looks to you for direction.
When to Start Leash Training
The best time to start leash training is as soon as your puppy arrives home, typically around 8 to 10 weeks old. At this stage, puppies are like little sponges, ready to soak up new experiences. But don’t worry if your puppy is older. Dogs of any age can learn to walk politely on a leash with patience and positive reinforcement.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather a few essentials:

  • A well-fitted collar or harness. A comfortable, secure fit ensures your puppy feels safe. Harnesses are especially great for small breeds or puppies prone to pulling.
  • A lightweight leash.  Start with a standard 4- to 6-foot leash rather than a retractable one, which can encourage pulling.
  • Tasty treats or a favourite toy. Positive reinforcement is key! Use small, high-value treats to reward good behaviour.
  • Patience and encouragement.  Every puppy learns at their own pace, so be gentle and celebrate small successes.

Introducing Your Puppy to the Leash and Collar/Harness

You’re about to take the first step in teaching your puppy one of the most important life skills—walking on a leash. But before you head outside for an adventure, it’s essential to start slow and introduce your puppy to their walking gear in a way that feels safe, fun, and exciting.
Many puppies have never worn a collar or harness before, let alone felt the weight of a leash attached to them. Rushing this step can lead to discomfort, fear, or even resistance to future walks. That’s why a gentle, positive introduction is the key to success.
Getting Familiar with the Gear

You’ll first need the right collar or harness and a lightweight leash.

  • Choose a well-fitted collar or harness:
    You should be able to fit two fingers comfortably between your puppy’s neck and the collar. If using a harness, make sure it’s snug but not tight. Some puppies, especially smaller breeds or brachycephalic dogs (like pugs or bulldogs), do better with a harness since it reduces strain on their necks.
  • Pick a soft, lightweight leash:
    A 4- to 6-foot leash is ideal for training. Avoid retractable leashes at this stage, as they encourage pulling and make it harder to teach proper walking behaviour.
  • Introduce the collar/harness slowly:
    Let your puppy sniff, paw, and investigate the new gear before putting it on. You can even rub your hands on it to transfer your scent, making it feel more familiar.
  • Make it a fun experience:
    Use a cheerful voice, gentle petting, and treats while showing them the leash and collar/harness. Reward curiosity, sniffing or touching the gear on their own is a great sign!

Putting the Collar/Harness On
Now that your puppy is familiar with their new gear, it’s time to try it on!

  • Start in a calm environment:
    Choose a quiet room without too many distractions. Sit on the floor and let your puppy come to you naturally.
  • Slip the collar or harness on gently:
    If your puppy is wiggly, try doing this during playtime or right before mealtime, so they associate it with positive experiences.
  • Keep the first session short:
    The first time your puppy wears a collar or harness, it should last only a few minutes. If your puppy scratches at it or seems uncomfortable, don’t worry. This is entirely normal!
  • Distract and reward:
    Immediately after putting it on, offer treats or a favourite toy or engage in play. This helps shift their focus away from the new sensation and makes wearing it feel rewarding.
  • Gradually increase wear time:
    Over the next few days, let your puppy wear its collar or harness for longer periods while indoors. This will make it a natural part of their routine.

Introducing the Leash Indoors
Once your puppy is comfortable wearing its collar or harness, it’s time to introduce the leash, but don’t go outside just yet!

  • Attach the leash and let them drag it:
    Clip the leash on and allow your puppy to move around freely while supervised. Let them explore while the leash trails behind so they get used to its presence.
  • Practice gentle guidance:
    Pick up the leash and encourage your puppy to follow you with treats, an excited voice, or their favourite toy. Avoid pulling—let them move at their own pace.
  • Make it fun:
    Walk a few steps, reward them when they come towards you, and keep sessions short and positive (just a few minutes at a time).
  • Avoid leash chewing:
    If your puppy starts biting the leash, redirect them with a toy or treat instead of pulling it away.

Practicing Indoors

Many new puppy parents make the mistake of rushing outside too soon, only to be met with a puppy who refuses to move, pulls in every direction, or gets overwhelmed by the sights and sounds of the big world. That’s why starting indoors, in a calm, familiar environment, is such an important step!
By practicing at home first, your puppy can build confidence and understand what the leash is for without the distractions and excitement of the outdoors.
Creating a Comfortable Training Space
Pick a quiet, low-distraction area in your home, like the living room, hallway, or even the backyard if it’s fenced. The goal is to make the experience stress-free and fun, so avoid places with slippery floors or too many obstacles.

  • Keep the leash loose:
    Avoid pulling or keeping it too tight; let your puppy feel like they have some freedom while still being connected to you.
  • Use a cheerful, upbeat voice:
    Puppies respond best to encouragement! Use an excited, happy tone to keep them engaged.
  • Have treats handy:
    Small, bite-sized rewards will help reinforce good behaviour and motivate your pup to follow your lead.

Encouraging Movement on the Leash
Now that your puppy is comfortable wearing the leash, it’s time to teach it to move with you. But remember, we’re not aiming for a perfect heel position at this stage. We’re just getting it used to the feeling of walking on a leash.

  • Start with simple encouragement:
    Stand a short distance away and call your puppy excitedly and happy. If they come toward you, reward them immediately with a treat and praise.
  • Take a few steps and reward:
    Hold a treat in your hand near your leg, take a step or two, and reward your pup when they follow. Keep sessions short and positive (just a few minutes at a time).
  • Use a cue like “Let’s go!”:
    This helps your puppy associate the action of walking with a command. Say it in a cheerful tone just before you start moving.
  • Avoid dragging or pulling:
    Don’t yank the leash if your puppy stops or resists. Instead, use encouragement with a treat or a toy, or even crouch down and call them to you, which can help.

Redirecting Common Challenges

  • Puppy pulls in the opposite direction?
    Stop walking and stand still. Wait for them to turn toward you, then reward and praise. Never yank the leash—this can create negative associations.
  • Puppy sits and refuses to move?
    This is normal! Instead of pulling, try tempting them with a treat, using an excited voice, or gently patting your leg to encourage movement.
  • Puppy chews on the leash?
    Redirect their attention with a toy or a treat. You can also use a shorter leash to minimize chewing temptation.
  • Puppy gets too excited and jumps?
    Stay calm and still, wait for them to settle, and then continue walking. Reward them only when all four paws are on the ground.

Ending on a Positive Note
Since puppies have short attention spans, keep these practice sessions brief and rewarding, about 5 to 10 minutes at a time. End on a high note by giving lots of praise, belly rubs, and a treat for their effort.
Once your puppy confidently walks with you inside and responds well to leash guidance, it’s time for the next exciting step.

Teaching Basic Commands for Walking

Now that your puppy is comfortable wearing their leash indoors and taking a few steps with you, it’s time to introduce basic walking commands!
At this stage, your puppy is still learning what it means to walk with you, so we’re not aiming for perfection. These are just small steps toward good leash manners. Teaching a few simple commands now will make outdoor walks much easier and more enjoyable for both of you.
By introducing cues like “Come,” “Heel,” “Stop,” and “Let’s go,” you’ll help your puppy understand what you want from them. These commands keep them safe and focused, even in exciting new environments.
Teaching the “Come” Command
Before heading outside, your puppy should know how to come to you when called, especially when they’re on a leash.

  • How to Teach “Come” on a Leash:
    • Start indoors or in a fenced area. Keep distractions to a minimum.
    • Hold the leash loosely and say “Come.” Use a happy, encouraging tone.
    • Take a few steps backward. Puppies love to chase, and moving away from them often triggers their natural instinct to follow.
    • Reward immediately. When your puppy reaches you, praise them and give them a small treat.
    • Repeat and make it fun! Play a game where you call them from different directions while holding the leash.

Teaching the “Let’s Go” (or “Walk”) Command
This command signals your puppy that it’s time to move forward with you instead of pulling or stopping to sniff every leaf!

  • How to Teach “Let’s Go”:
    • Hold the leash with a slight slack. Avoid too much tension.
    • Say, “Let’s go!” in an excited tone. Then start walking.
    • Reward when your puppy moves with you. Give treats and verbal praise for following your lead.
    • If they stop or hesitate, encourage them. Use a treat or tap your leg to get them moving.
    • First, practice short distances. Walk a few steps at a time, then gradually increase the length of your sessions.

Teaching the “Heel” Command
“Heel” means your puppy walks beside you instead of pulling ahead or lagging behind. This command is useful when you need your pup to stay close in crowded places or near traffic.

  • How to Teach “Heel”:
    • Stand with your puppy on your left side. Hold a treat in your left hand near your thigh.
    • Say “Heel” and take a step forward. The treat should encourage them to stay close.
    • Reward when they stay beside you. Praise and treat immediately.
    • Use gentle leash guidance. If they pull ahead, stop walking and wait until they return to your side.
    • First, practice short distances. Start with just a few steps before increasing the time spent in the “heel” position.
    • If your puppy pulls ahead, stop moving and reset. The moment they return to your side, reward them!

Teaching the “Stop” Command
Teaching your puppy to stop when you do is important for safety and control. Especially when crossing streets or avoiding obstacles.

  • How to Teach “Stop”:
    • Walk forward, then suddenly stop. Say “Stop” in a firm but calm voice.
    • Wait for your puppy to pause. If they stop with you, reward them immediately!
    • If they keep moving, gently block them. Use your hand or leash to guide them back to a standing or sitting position.
    • Repeat with different walking speeds. This helps them learn to stop no matter how fast they move.

Putting It All Together
Now that your puppy knows a few basic commands, practice them together in a fun indoor session:

    • Start with “Let’s go” and walk forward.
    • Say “Heel” every few steps and reward them for staying close.
    • Randomly practice “Stop” to make sure they’re paying attention.
    • Call them to you using “Come” when needed.
    • Keep sessions short and positive (5-10 minutes at a time) and always end on a good note with a treat and praise.
A young golden-brown dog energetically pulling on its leash while walking outdoors with its owner.

Take the First Outdoor Walk

Taking your puppy outside for the first time on a leash is a big milestone, but it can also feel overwhelming for them. The outside world is full of new sights, sounds, and smells, which can be exciting and a little scary.
Choosing the Right Location
For your puppy’s first outdoor walk, starting in a calm, quiet area is best to prevent them from feeling overstimulated.

  • Best places for a first walk:
    • Your backyard or driveway (if safe)
    • A quiet park with open space
    • A peaceful sidewalk in your neighbourhood
  • Places to avoid at first:
    • Busy streets with loud traffic
    • Dog parks (too many distractions and unfamiliar dogs)
    • Areas with too many people or overwhelming noises
    • Starting in a low-distraction environment lets your puppy focus on you and feel more comfortable on their leash.

Easing Into the Outdoor Walk

    • Keep the first walk short. Just 5-10 minutes is enough for the first few outings.
    • Let your puppy explore. Give them time to sniff and take in the environment (but not pull!).
    • Use positive reinforcement. Reward calm walking and good behaviour with treats and praise.
    • Stay patient and encouraging. Your puppy might be hesitant at first. Keep your tone happy and relaxed!

Handling Common First Walk Challenges

  • What if my puppy refuses to walk?
    • Stay calm! This is completely normal. Puppies often “freeze” when they’re unsure.
    • Try crouching down and calling them in a happy voice.
    • Use treats or a toy to encourage movement.
    • Take a step back—sometimes, moving away from them sparks curiosity!
    • Don’t pull or drag them—it can create fear and resistance.
  • What if my puppy pulls on the leash?
    • Puppies get excited and may try to lead the way!
    • If they pull, stop walking immediately.
    • Wait for the leash to slack, then reward them for returning to your side.
    • Be consistent. They’ll learn that pulling won’t get them anywhere!
    • Start by walking a few steps at a time, rewarding them for staying close.
  • What if my puppy gets scared?
    • Pause and reassure them with a calm voice.
    • Don’t force them forward. Let them observe until they feel safe.
    • Reward bravery! If they recover and keep walking, offer a treat and praise.
    • Over time, your puppy will become more confident with exposure to new things!

Ending the Walk on a Positive Note

    • Keep it fun and rewarding. Finish with a treat, playtime, or snuggles.
    • Gradually increase walk time. Each day, add a little more distance.
    • Stay consistent. The more regularly you walk, the more natural it will feel!

Handling Common Challenges

Now that your puppy has taken their first few outdoor walks, you might start noticing everyday leash-training struggles. That’s totally normal! Every puppy learns at their own pace, and part of the journey is helping them overcome distractions, pulling, stopping, and other typical behaviours.
Puppy Pulling on the Leash
Puppies are naturally curious and eager to explore, so pulling ahead is one of the most common leash issues. But if not corrected early, it can become a hard-to-break habit.

  • Use the “Red Light, Green Light” Method:
    • The moment your puppy pulls, STOP walking immediately.
    • Wait for them to turn back or loosen the tension, then reward and continue walking.
    • If they pull again, repeat the process.
  • Encourage Loose-Leash Walking:
    • Keep treats at your side (near your leg) and reward your puppy for walking next to you instead of ahead.
    • Use a cheerful voice and praise them when they stay close.
    • If they start pulling, try changing direction to keep them engaged.
    • Your puppy will learn that pulling doesn’t get them anywhere, but walking politely does.

Puppy Stopping and Refusing to Walk
Some puppies get overwhelmed, nervous, or simply stubborn about walking forward. If your pup freezes on the sidewalk, don’t worry; there are simple ways to encourage movement.

  • Use a Cheerful Voice & Encouragement:
    • Call your puppy’s name in a happy, excited tone to make walking seem fun.
    • Try crouching down and opening your arms to encourage them toward you.
    • Use Treats as Motivation:
    • Hold a small treat in your hand near your knee and take a step forward.
    • The moment your puppy follows, reward them with praise and a treat.
    • Try the “Walk and Reward” Game:
    • Take a few steps, then pause and reward your puppy for moving with you.
    • Repeat until they’re happily following your lead.
    • If your puppy is scared of something, let it pause and observe before gently encouraging it forward. Never force it!

Getting Distracted by Everything
Puppies have short attention spans and love exploring the world, but too much sniffing, stopping, or chasing after things can make walks frustrating.

  • Use the “Watch Me” Command:
    • Hold a treat near your face and say, “Watch me” or “Look.”
    • When your puppy makes eye contact, reward them immediately.
    • Practice this often so they learn to focus on you instead of distractions.
  • Keep Walks Engaging:
    • Change pace, take different routes, or turn around suddenly. This keeps your puppy interested in you.
    • Carry a favourite toy to redirect their focus if needed.
  • Limit Sniffing Time:
    • Allow sniff breaks, but on your terms. Teach “Let’s go!” when it’s time to move on.
    • Puppies are naturally curious, but with time, they’ll learn to pay attention to you while walking.

Overexcitement & Jumping on Walks
Some puppies get so excited that they jump, spin, or tug at the leash out of sheer joy. While enthusiasm is great, jumping can be a problem when meeting new people or dogs.

  • Stay Calm & Ignore the Jumping:
    • If your puppy jumps, don’t give attention. Stop walking and wait for them to settle.
    • Reward them and continue once they have all four paws on the ground.
  • Teach the “Sit for Greetings” Rule:
    • When your puppy sees a person or dog, ask them to sit before they get attention.
    • If they stay seated, they get a treat and can say hello!

Reacting to Other Dogs or People
Does your puppy bark, lunge, or get too excited when seeing another dog or stranger? Socialization is important, but teaching calm walking behaviour is even more important.

  • Keep Distance at First:
    • If your puppy gets overexcited, move farther away from the distraction and reward calm behaviour.
    • Gradually decrease distance as they learn to stay calm.
  • Teach “Look at Me” for Distractions:
    • Before your puppy gets too excited, use the “Watch Me” command to keep their focus on you.
  • Reward Calm Reactions:
    • If they stay calm around another dog or person, praise and reward them immediately.
    • If they bark or lunge, redirect their attention with a treat or turn around and walk in the opposite direction.

Reinforcing Good Walking Behavior Every Day!
You’ve worked through the most common challenges, and your puppy is learning to walk politely on a leash. The goal is to keep practicing, reinforcing, and making each walk a positive experience!

  • Practice daily walks, even if they’re short.
  • Gradually introduce new environments to build confidence.
  • Use fewer treats over time, but keep up with verbal praise!
  • Be consistent with the rules. Puppies learn best with repetition.
  • Every walk is a learning opportunity and a chance to bond with your pup.

Reinforcing Good Walking Behavior & Advancing to Off-Leash Skills

It’s time to reinforce those good leash manners so they become second nature. Plus, if you dream of safely allowing your dog some off-leash freedom, you’ll need to take a few extra training steps to make sure they stay under control.
Practicing Loose-Leash Walking Daily

    • Keep rewarding good behaviour. Even as treats become less frequent, continue praising and rewarding calm walking.
    • Vary your walking routes. New environments challenge your puppy’s focus and build confidence.
    • Practice leash skills in different situations. Walk at different times of day, near busier areas, and on different surfaces to help them adapt.
    • Increase walk duration gradually. As your puppy grows, increase walks to help them burn energy and stay engaged.

Teaching Off-Leash Skills Safely
Many owners want their dogs to enjoy off-leash freedom in parks, trails, or their backyard. But before you unclip the leash, make sure your dog is truly ready and reliable.

    • A solid “Come” command. They should return to you 100% of the time when called.
    • A strong “Stay” command. They should be able to stay put even with distractions.
    • Good impulse control. No chasing squirrels, running off, or ignoring you when excited.
    • Leash free practice in controlled spaces. Start in a fenced yard or enclosed field before trying open areas.

Training the “Recall” Command (Coming When Called)
One of the most important off-leash skills is reliable recall. Your dog should come running to you no matter what.

    • Start indoors or in a fenced area. Say “Come!” in an excited tone.
    • Encourage movement. Crouch down, open your arms, or run backward to make it fun.
    • Reward immediately. When they reach you, give a high-value treat and plenty of praise!
    • Practice in gradually more distracting environments. Once they respond consistently indoors, move to a backyard, then a quiet park.
    • NEVER punish when they come. Even if they took a while, always reward them!
    • Use a long training leash (15-30 feet) to practice recall in open spaces before going completely off-leash.

Introducing Off-Leash Time Gradually
Start in fenced areas. Parks with enclosed fields are a great place to practice.
Use a long leash for extra control. A long-line leash (20+ feet) lets them explore while keeping safety in check.
Test recall before fully unclipping. If your dog ignores you on a long leash, they’re not ready for full off-leash time yet.
If they’re easily distracted by other dogs, wildlife, or smells, reinforce training before giving them more freedom.
Advanced Walking Skills

Advanced Walking Skills

By now, your puppy has mastered the basics of leash walking. It’s time to take things to the next level by introducing more advanced walking skills. These techniques will help your dog stay focused in busy environments, respond to directional cues, and walk like a pro no matter where you go!
Teaching Directional Cues
As your walks become more adventurous, teaching your dog left, right, slow, and fast can make your outings smoother and more enjoyable.

  • How to Teach Left & Right Turns:
    • Use treats or a toy to guide them in the desired direction.
    • Say “Left” or “Right” just before turning.
    • Reward them immediately after they follow the turn.
    • Practice on sidewalks or along walls to guide their movement naturally.
    • If your dog veers off course, use leash guidance and body movement to encourage correct turns.
  • Teaching Speed Control: “Slow” & “Fast”
    • Start by walking at your normal pace.
    • Say “Slow” and reduce your speed. If your dog slows with you, reward them!
    • Say “Fast” and increase your pace. Reward them for keeping up.

Walking in Busier Environments
Once your dog walks well in quiet areas, it’s time to add distractions!

  • How to Introduce More Challenging Walks:
    • Start with mild distractions (a quiet park with some people and dogs).
    • Gradually work up to busier areas (like sidewalks, farmers’ markets, or outdoor cafés).
    • Use the “Look at Me” command to keep their attention on you.
    • Stay calm and confident. Dogs pick up on your energy!
    • If your dog gets overwhelmed, step away from the distraction, practice a few commands, and reward calm behaviour.
  • Training for Off-Leash Walking in More Places
    • If you plan to walk off-leash in open fields, hiking trails, or dog-friendly beaches, your dog must be 100% reliable with recall and focus.
    • Start with a long-line leash (15-30 feet) to practice recall and freedom safely.
    • Increase distractions gradually. Train around other dogs, people, or wildlife.
    • Always carry high-value treats or a favourite toy for motivation.
    • Never let them off-leash in unsafe areas. Busy streets or unfenced locations require extra caution.
    • Off-leash walking should only be allowed when you’re confident your dog will always return to you!
  • Using a Hands-Free Leash for Jogging & Hiking
    If you love running or hiking, transitioning to a waist or hands-free leash setup can make active outings easier.
    • Practice loose-leash walking before switching to hands-free.
    • Use the “Heel” and “Slow” commands to keep control while jogging.
    • Bring water and rest breaks for longer adventures.

You’ve successfully guided your puppy from its introduction to a leash to advanced walking skills and real-world adventures. That’s an incredible achievement, and it’s all thanks to your patience, dedication, and positive reinforcement!
Walking isn’t just about exercise. It’s about bonding, trust, and shared experiences. Whether it’s a quiet neighbourhood stroll, a fun trip to the park, or an adventurous off-leash hike, your dog will always look to you for guidance and companionship.

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