How to get Golden Retriever Puppy used to his leash?

Question

My pup is 8 weeks old. I'm trying to get him used it in now, because I know later it'll be harder. I've been letting him walk around with it while I was around to supervise him. Now I want to start taking him out to potty on the leash, but he just lays in the grass and chews it! I have no idea what to do. Just another FYI - the dog doesn't like treats. I'm going to buy some hot dogs tomorrow and see if that will help with positive reinforcement.

Answer 1

hold the leash kind of tight (don't choke him, just try to keep it behind him). you can also try getting him to use his mouth for something else. i am personally a strong believer in peanut butter. rub a little on top of his nose. he should find his nose more appealing (or at least annoying enough) to concentrate on it rather than the leash.

another thing: i know you said your dog is in anti-treat mode, but have you tried cat treats? they're smaller, softer, and smell stronger. plus they usually come in a little can (the shaky sound works better than a clicker). my dog refuses to eat milkbones but loves those.

Answer 2

Try calling him to  you while you back up, maybe use a toy. Don't give him hotdogs they're not good for him, but if you do go to the store try some chicken, then you can boil it up for him and cut it up real small. that'll work hopefully. good luck with the puppy

Answer 3

Just keep walking him on the leash.  He will eventually get used to it.  I remember when my dog was seven months old and she was not leash trained.  She pulled and tugged as hard as she could.  She eventually got used to being on the leash and had no problem with it.

Answer 4

My dog had to get used to his too when he was younger. Leave it on him in the house, after a while he will get used to having it on. Try taking him on more walks,wich will make him get a lot more used to it! You were absolutly correct about it being harder when he gets older, it will be harder, trust me! Since he is still a little thing, it might take him longer because he has only been in this world for a couple weeks! Make sure to be patient and dont get angry with him, it will only make it more tough. Its a training process which takes time! Have fun with ur new puppy and I hope I helped!! :)

Answer 5

First off get a 6 foot lead and just take him out in your yard and let him start walking in the yard with it and than pick it up as he is walking or if you have a friend that has a older dog that is train take them out together and the pup will follow the older dog .

Answer 6

You are the leader of the pack Alpha Male or Female however the case may be. You have to control him and like you say 'now is the time to start' You can start with a slight tightening of the leash and to lead to give him structure and you a 'structured time' exercises with him. If this fails then try whatever advice anyone else may give you here. After that, then seek professional help thru Pets mart, Petco, Pets Barn or whatever major pet store is in your area or even check with your local vet and look for pet training classes!    

Answer 7

Try boiled chicken, bits of cheese, pieces of beef, whatever he likes that's not horrible for him, if the hot-dogs are the standard supermarket ones, steer clear of them, they are high in salt and preserved with chemicals.  Ick!  If treats aren't doing it, then what about a squeaky toy?  Squeak it, when he goes a few steps, let him play for a few seconds, then try again.  You can also play the 'name game' with him and his meals.  Call his name, give him a kibble, move a few steps, call his name, give a kibble when he comes.  That will not only teach him his name, but also that if he follows you and comes to you when you call, it's a good thing and he gets treats.  It's a good start for a solid recall later on and will also help with the leash training.  Once you start with the name game, try calling his name, praise and give a reward for following you with the leash attached.  He's still very young, be very patient with him and only very short training sessions (maybe a minute or two at the most at his age, frequent and sprinkled throughout the day).  They have very short attention spans at his age, it's best to end on a good note, before he loses interest and you get frustrated, so keep them very very short.  

Answer 8

ahh my area of expertise... well he is just a pup! try taking him on actual walks not just the yard. he might think that the leash is just a toy considering thats where he may play most of the times. but before you take him on real walk make sure he has all his shots up to date, you dont want a sick pup! and a little tip: try to stay away from weenies, i try not to eat them myself, too many by products and fat, try some all white meat turkey breast(sandwhich meat) its alot healthier. goodluck!

Answer 9

I strongly suggest taking your puppy to Puppy Kindergarten!  Try contacting your local kennel club and see if they offer Puppy K.  They will get you on the right track for training basic commands and leash manners as well as provide an excellent socialization opportunity (which is SO important for young puppies!)