Leash training is a long process of patience and guidance for a puppy.
While some dogs accept the collar right away, others will resist with everything they have.
Every owner faces this challenge differently, but the goal is always to move from constant pulling to a relaxed walk.
Being persistent and holding your ground are your “best tools” when teaching the puppy how to behave on the street.
Find out how to stop the pulling and start enjoying your walks.
The Right Time for the First Walk
Starting leash training for the puppy usually happens between three and four months of age.
By this stage, vaccinations are finally out of the way, so you can safely move from your yard to the local dog park.
However, you must look at the breed, age and the specific character of your pup before rushing in.
Taking it slow now ensures a much more relaxed walk for the dog as he gets older.
Choosing the Right Gear for Your Pup
Picking the right equipment for the puppy depends on their size and how they react to the tension of a lead.
Small breeds often do better with a harness to protect their fragile necks, while larger dogs need a sturdy flat collar.
You should avoid retractable leads during training because they teach the puppies that pulling actually works.
A standard nylon or leather lead is much better for keeping control and giving clear feedback.
Always check that you can fit two fingers between the collar and the neck of the puppy.
Flat collars are best for daily wear, but make sure the metal buckles aren’t too heavy for a young dog.
Martingale collars can help if the dog tends to slip out of a regular one, but never leave these on when he is alone.
Getting the basic gear right makes those first walks much easier for both of you.
Getting Your Pup Used to the Collar
Getting the puppy used to a collar works best when it’s tied to rewards.
Put the collar on right before mealtime rather than during a play session.
When the puppies eat, they focus on the food and quickly learn that the collar leads to something good. This is the fastest way to build a habit without making the gear a big deal.
Ensure the fit is snug so the puppy cannot get a paw caught under the strap. If he starts scratching at it, use a treat or a toy to redirect him immediately.
When the dog no longer notices the collar, you are ready to attach the lead for the first time. [1]
The First Time on the Lead
Once the puppy is comfortable with the collar, it is time to attach the lead and get moving.
Instead of letting the puppies drag the lead and chew on it, hold the handle and move with them right away. This prevents the gear from getting tangled under their feet and helps the puppy get used to the weight without feeling restricted.
Use small treats to reward the dog every time the lead is slack. If he freezes or tries to pull away, do not jerk the lead; simply use a treat to lure him toward you.
The goal is to show him that a loose lead is the only way to get a reward.
When Your Pup Refuses to Move
There will be moments when the dog simply sits and refuses to move.
Don’t pull the lead! Just drop it on the ground and take a few steps away.
Letting the lead go slack gives the puppies the space to process things and move on their own.
Call them, and you will see them quickly close the gap to catch up with you.
Don’t bribe them with treats or try to coax them while they are stuck; simply wait for that first move.
Once the puppy chooses to follow, reward that specific action immediately.
This teaches him that moving with you is the best part of the walk.
Make sure you don’t reward bad habits or actions with a smile, treats, or cuddles, as the puppy will think that refusing to move is exactly what you want.
How Long Does It Take?
Leash training takes time, and there is no exact rule for how long it lasts.
While the puppy might get the hang of it in a few weeks, building a real habit depends on their character (breed, age size) and your consistency.
Keep a close eye on the puppy’s weight – excess kilograms put unnecessary strain on their developing joints.
Short sessions of 5 to 10 minutes a day are the best way to make progress without overworking the pup.
Conclusion
Leash training is about more than just walking – it is key to a dog’s safety and their relationship with the owner.
There is no set rule for how long the process takes; success comes down to your patience and, above all, your consistency.
Every dog is an individual. Understanding their breed, age, and character is the only way to get the best results.
Keep the training short, stay focused, and always reward progress through play and positive interaction.
Thank you for following our work. If you have questions or want to share your own experience, feel free to leave a comment below.
Sources:
- Naviknite štene na povodac (more information);
Leash Training for Sarplaninac Puppies
At our kennel, training begins as early as 3 months of age (sometimes earlier). Introducing the puppy to the lead works best during play or right before mealtime, making sure the first experience is positive.
Every Sarplaninac is different, and we often face challenges like leash biting, stubbornness, or a lack of confidence.
We solve these challenges by staying consistent and applying our specific methods of work (finding the right approach for each dog).
A quick tip for owners: Never start training on a full stomach, and avoid using a harness with this breed – it is not the right tool for the Sarplaninac.
Watch the video below to see a 9-week-old Sarplaninac puppy in training and see how our methods work in practice.