Leash Training Your Dog

Dog Leash Training: Essential Step
in Boxer Dog Training

Leash training your dog is essential if you want him to go anywhere with you. Dog leash training must become an essential part of your boxer dog training.

Do you plan to take your dog out into public at some point? Perhaps for a walk around the block, hiking & camping, to the local dog park or to a friend's house? If so, you need to start leash training your boxer right now. It's the only way to ensure his/her safety when you leave home.

Even the most well-behaved dog can't be depended upon to stay by your side every minute in a new environment. There are just too many distractions. You are courting disaster if you expect your dog to be perfect in such situations.

Just clipping your boxer onto a leash isn't enough. Boxers are big strong dogs. They need to be taught how to behave when on leash.

Process for Leash Training Your Dog

Follow these basic steps to start your boxer dog leash training...

1. Place a collar and leash on your dog while in the house, letting the leash hang loosely. This helps your dog get used to having a collar around his neck. If you do it while he eats, it can also help him associate the leash with something pleasant (food).

2. After doing that for a few days, take the leash in your hand and follow him around the house for a few minutes after he's done eating. Keep doing that for longer and longer periods each day. Eventually, your dog will get used to both the leash/collar and having you walk beside him.

3. The next step is to go outside with your boxer dog, letting her drag the leash around. Every now and then, pick up the leash and follow her as you did in the house. Offer a doggies treat while showing her the leash.

4. Once step 3 has gone well for a couple of days, venture out into the neighborhood for a walk. While walking, hold the leash in your right hand and coax your dog to walk next to your left side, by holding a treat in your left hand. Keep repeating the phrase, "Let's go!" as you are walking. Praise your dog when she does well.

5. If your dog begins to pull or strain against the leash, turn clockwise and start walking in the opposite direction. When you do so, the leash will pull your boxer's head to the side, and he'll have to hurry to catch up with you again. You might feel kind of silly walking in circles, but keep reversing direction as needed, until your dog learns that if he wants to walk beside you and receive your praise, he'll have to stay at your side.

Dog Leash Training Tips

Credit: ~dpr~/Flickr

Here are some additional tips that can help you master the leash aspect of your boxer dog training:

• Be patient; dogs, like people, learn at different rates. If you're consistent and patient, your boxer dog will eventually take to the leash.

• Conduct your first few leash training sessions in a quiet place that is mostly free from distractions, such as your backyard, on a lightly traveled street or a quiet park.

• Tire your dog out with some active play before the leash training exercise. Boxers are high-spirited; a little playtime first will help them be more docile on the leash.

• Use the right equipment. Boxer leash training often goes better with a chest halter instead of a traditional collar, or a bridle type device that goes over the head and snout.

• Practice for 5 to 10 minutes every day and make it fun for your dog, giving her frequent praise.

In Summary...

Leash training your dog should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your boxer, especially as you both become more adept at it. Going for a walk with your dog is one of the most pleasurable experiences you can have with each other. So make dog leash training part of your overall boxer dog training plan.

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