At what age should I start leash training my puppy?

You can introduce the collar and leash as early as 8 weeks. Start indoors with very short sessions — just getting the puppy comfortable wearing the collar first, then dragging the leash, then following treats on leash. Formal walking practice can begin at 8–10 weeks indoors, then expand outdoors as vaccination status allows.

My puppy sits down and refuses to walk on leash. What do I do?

This is very common and has a simple fix: never drag the puppy forward. Instead, crouch down a few feet ahead, use your most exciting voice, and let the puppy come to you. Or hold a treat at the puppy's nose and lure them a few steps before rewarding. Pulling creates opposition reflex — the harder you pull, the more the puppy resists. Patience and luring solve this quickly.

How long should leash training walks be for a puppy?

Start with 5–10 minute sessions indoors before moving outdoors. Outside, 10–15 minute sniff walks are appropriate for young puppies (under 3 months). Gradually increase as the puppy builds stamina and leash confidence. Avoid forced marching — a sniff walk where the puppy sets a slower pace and investigates their environment is far more enriching than a brisk walk where the puppy is dragged along.

Should I use a harness or collar for leash training?

A well-fitted flat collar or a front-clip harness are both appropriate for most puppies. Front-clip harnesses reduce pulling by steering the puppy back toward you when they lunge forward. Avoid retractable leashes — they teach puppies to pull (tension = more freedom), are dangerous around other dogs and people, and provide no control. A 4–6 foot standard leash is best for training.

How to Leash Train a Puppy: From First Walk to Polite Walking

A practical guide to leash training your puppy: from the first collar introduction through reliable loose-leash walking — starting at 8 weeks.