Leash training a puppy can be challenging. Leash training three puppies is plum craziness! But it’s part of puppyhood and something they need to learn. I knew it would be extra busy and more difficult raising littermates. Yes, they always have a playmate, but they also need time away from each other and to learn to be independent. But with Bo still here too, it’s been extra busy-crazy! But we’ll muddle through as best as we can until the right home comes along for him.

The puppies have been wearing collars for a long time so they didn’t need to get used to that feeling. But adding a leash is something new.

I like to have a lightweight leash attached to their collar and let them drag it around for a while so they get used to the weight and pull of something on the collar. Of course, this is always done under supervision as we would never want the leash to get hung up on something. But as an added precaution the puppies do wear break-away collars so the buckles “pop” open when there is a bit of pressure from something tugging (for instance if a puppy happen to get snagged on the crate door or something.) It’s a great safety measure.

Once the puppies get used to the drag of the leash on their collar, then I will pick up the leash and encourage them to walk with me. Heading towards something they’re interested in (like the house or towards their littermates) is the best incentive. Also adding a bit of a treat to entice them along also helps. With that cheese reward after a successful “walk” on the leash.

Good job, puppies!