1. Make sure your dog’s leash isn’t too long. Four to six feet is ideal.
2. Conduct your training session in an area with few distractions, such as your backyard or a quiet park.
3. If your dog is overly excited, tire him out a bit with vigorous play before hooking on the leash. A slightly fatigued dog is more attentive.
4. Begin by placing the collar and leash on your dog while he eats, letting the leash hang loosely by his side. This allows your dog to associate the leash with something pleasant (food) and helps him get used to having a collar around his neck.
5. After 2-3 days of doing this, take the leash in your hand and follow him around the house for a few minutes after he’s eaten. Keep doing this for longer periods of time, until your dog is used to both the leash and having you walk beside him.
6. Next, go outside and let your dog drag the leash around, occasionally picking it up and following him. Offer a treat while showing the leash.
7. While walking, hold the leash in your right hand and coax your dog along your left side by holding a treat in your left hand. As you walk, repeat the phrase, “Let’s go!” Praise your dog when he does well.
8. If your dog starts to pull forward, do a clockwise turn and walk in another direction; the leash will pull his head to the side so he’ll have to hurry to catch up with you. Repeat this exercise until your dog learns that if he wants to walk beside you and receive your praise, he’ll have to stay by your side.
9. Your patience will pay off. Never yell at or strike your dog during training.
