I have a two month old miniature poodle puppy...how can I get him leash trained?

Question

As stated he is two months old, but through struggle (mainly caused by me from inexperince) I have found that he refuses to be lead by a leash. I've carried him around since before his eyes were even open, and now that I no longer wish to carry him around as often, I'm finding that the only response I get from trying to lead him on a leash is yelping to alarming pitches, coughing, even almost choking himself. I need advice on how to gain a packleader position with him to assist with training. How can I do so, step-by-step?

Answer 1

Start by putting a leash on his collar, and let him just drag it around to get used to it. Then I would sit down on the floor and tell him to "come" and tug on the leash, and also pat the floor and encourage him to come to you. If he pulls back against the leash & throws a fit, let him do it for a little bit. Then release the tension in the leash, then try again. You're probably going to have to do this a LOT before he learns. Another suggestion is to tie the other end of the leash to something (table leg, etc) for short periods of time, so that he learns that he can't get away from the leash.

Since you say you are inexperienced, I would really recommend that you go to your local library or book store, and get a book on dog training. This will help you a lot. Also, some cities have kennel clubs that offer obedience lessons. They're usually not to expensive, and it's fun to socialize with other dog owners.

Answer 2

Start by placing the leash high in it's neck, just behind the ears. The lower the leash is located on the neck the closer it will be to it's shoulders and this make it's harder to control your puppy. Now keep the leash tight and the puppies head high so that it can't smell the ground or lower it's head. Your ready to go. Relax, start walking and the puppy will follow. It might take a few tries but dogs are smarter than most people give them credit for being.

Answer 3

1) Instead of using a collar at first you should use a harness:
(http://www.dogfriendlybritain.co.uk/product_images/puppy-dog-harness-L.jpg)
for puppies.
2) Whenever you walk him take him for little bit longer walks each time, but take different routes, which is good for stimulating the puppy's brain.
3) When you think the puppy should move to a collar, do so. Make sure the collar is a bit big in size for the puppy so he can get used to it.
4) Keep going tighter, just a little though, every week.
5) Finally, when the collar gets to the right size, walk him that way.

In life puppies grow larger, not much with Miniature Poodles though, and need new collars often. When it seems not to fit him any more, buy a larger one. That should be his last.

Answer 4

First, you have to remember that at 2 months old, he's still a baby. You need to be patient and calm and not expect too much yet.

Make sure his collar is light-weight and comfortable. Put the leash on him, fairly short leash so he's close to your side. Have a pocket full of treats with you, too. Tell him "let's go", and start walking, encouraging him to come along. Pat your leg, call his name, walk backwards, whatever it takes to get him to come along. Give him lots and lots of praise (and a treat or two) for taking a few steps with you.

It won't take long and he'll realize this is fun! Don't expect him to heel yet, all you want him to do is walk. At this age, it won't hurt for you to just go where he wants. You can sorry about teaching him to heel a little later. Give him lots of praise and he'll be walking in no time! Don't pull him, if he won't walk, you need to encourage him along - he'll come.

Answer 5

Since he's small, you could try a stick at the end of the stick put a dog treat or piece of hot dog. Hold it out in front of you and he should go after it. Try small distances. Make sure to give him lots of praise and a treat when he does want you want. Good luck.

Answer 6

Start with using a harness and not a collar.When he starts to go ahead of you gently give a little jerk back so that he is next to your side then give him positive feedback. "Good boy!"If he starts to move ahead of you put your hand down in front of his face and make a hissing sound. Don't touch him just show him the palm of your hand then when he stays put give him a pat and say "Good boy!"A dogs best reward is praise!

Answer 7

well make his collar a little looser but make sure it can't fall of and just pull him and if he doesn't listen or he chokes just give him a little nudge, . remember when he listens to you about anything you always give him a treat cause if you give him treats when he's good he will know that he's doing somthing good