Introducing the lead

Few dogs enjoy the experience of being put on a lead for the first time. Introduce the puppy to the lead gradually by attaching it to his collar and allowing him to get used to it being there. Calm the puppy and gently but firmly insist that he takes up a position on your left-hand side by gradually shortening the lead.

Once he has accepted that you have complete control of his movements start walking, with the command ‘Heel’. Talk to your puppy in a pleasant tone of voice and reassure him constantly. It doesn’t matter what you say, as long as you help him maintain his confidence.

Don’t let him chew on the lead – keep moving and when you turn always go to your right, away from the puppy. Left turns can come later when the puppy will walk quietly to heel – otherwise you could fall over him. Soon the puppy will learn that there is only one comfortable place to be when he is walking with you – by your left leg.

As you stop, place your left hand on his hindquarters close to his tail and say ‘Sit’, praising him as soon as he does. Keep the first lesson very short and be lavish to your praise when you finish. Repetition of this exercise will soon establish in the puppy’s mind what you mean by ‘Heel’ and ‘Sit’.