How to leash your dog?  Seems simple enough, you just clip the leash to the collar and out you go.  But is it that simple?  For many dog owners, they know that this is not a simple feat.  In fact, many will admit that leashing their dog is a process.  A process that the dog thinks is a game and the owner dreads.  But why?  Or better yet, how do we make this an easy process so we can get out the door quickly (and painlessly)?

Dog lovers are all alike.  We all have THE BEST dog in the world, we all know that!  And like everyone else’s dogs, your dog loves going on walks more than anything in the world.  Well, maybe not more than anything (steak, bacon, cheese, etc!), but going on walks is definitely on their short list of favorite things to do.  And as much as you love going on walks with your best friend, you struggle with getting them leashed before you walk out the door.

If  you have a dog that gives you a run for your money when it comes time to get them leashed up and are fed up with the, you can’t catch me game, and aren’t able to get out the door quickly, I’m going to let you in on some key information that will make leashing up your pup pain-free.  That’s right, if you need help on how to leash your dog, you need to read on.

Be Calm, Be Assertive

Before heading outside on a walk, your dog needs to be under control.  Yes, excited dogs are difficult to control, especially when they see you grab their leash.  That sets off an alarm of excitement!  Before you try to wrangle your dog into submission to put on their leash remember to be calm, be assertive.  And, most importantly, don’t chase or wrangle them.  I’m sure you are wondering how you can get your dog leashed without wrangling and struggling to leash them up.  Fair enough.

Keep calm and remain confident and follow these simple rules:

1. Hold the leash
2. Tell your dog to sit
3. Tell your dog to stay
4. Attach the leash to their collar or harness
   • If your dog jumps up and moves around, repeat steps 1-3
   • Now, attach the leash to their collar or harness
     • If your dog jumps up and moves around (again), repeat steps 1-3
     • Then, attach the leash to their collar or harness

Consistency Is Key

Basically, continue to go through the process until you have successfully leashed your dog without wrangling and chasing.  It might take a few tries.  Actually, I’m sure it will take a few tries in the beginning.  However, consistency is key.  Stay strong, stay under control, and remain confident.  When you have leashed up your dog, remember to praise him/her for doing a good job.  The next time you go to leash your dog, follow the above steps.  Stay strong, stay under control, and remain confident.  Every time you go through the process, your dog will remember what is expected and the leashing process will be easier, I promise.

We all do have the best dog in the world.  Some just need more than others.  And, like humans, they will never be done with their training.  They always need to work on continuing education to some extent.  Keep reminding your dog what they need to do.  And remember to stay strong, stay under control, and remain confident.  And when they do what you expect, don’t forget to reward them.  It doesn’t have to be with treats.  You can reward a dog with praise, belly rubs, and food (of course!).

Keep that continuing education going.  Learning is ongoing and that goes for dogs too!

Now that you are a pro at leashing up your dog, read how to train your dog to properly walk on a leash. 

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