How to Train Your Puppy to Walk on a Leash

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is one of the most exciting experiences for any dog lover. Alongside the cuddles, playtime, and adorable moments comes a responsibility: teaching your puppy the basics of good behavior. One of the most important lessons? Learning how to walk on a leash.

Leash training isn’t just about following the rules—it’s about building trust, improving communication, and making every walk safe and enjoyable for both of you. However, like any skill, it takes time, patience, and the right tools.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to train your puppy to walk on a leash, step by step. With the right approach (and a few smart gear recommendations), you’ll help your pup become a confident, well-mannered walking companion in no time.

Step 1: Start with the Right Leash

Before you begin training, you need to equip yourself – and your puppy – with the proper gear. Choosing the right leash can make or break your early experiences together. Since puppies are still learning to coordinate their movements and respond to commands, the leash should be lightweight, comfortable, and offer hands-free control when possible.

One fantastic option to consider is the Tuff Mutt Hands-Free Waist Leash. While it’s often favored by runners and hikers, it’s just as valuable for everyday puppy training. The adjustable belt and smooth-glide clip allow your puppy to move freely without getting tangled, while the shock-absorbing bungee protects both of you from sudden pulls. As your puppy learns the basics, being able to use your hands to reward or redirect them quickly is a huge bonus.

Whether you opt for a waist leash or a more traditional hand-held one, make sure it’s secure, durable, and suited to your puppy’s size. A 4–6 foot leash length is ideal for control without limiting movement.

Step 2: Use a Comfortable, Secure Harness

While it’s tempting to rely on a collar during leash training, many dog trainers and veterinarians recommend starting with a harness, especially for puppies. A harness helps distribute pressure more evenly across your pup’s body, reducing strain on their developing neck and making it less likely they’ll slip free during walks.

For this, we recommend the ShawnCo Essential Dog Harness. The harness features adjustable belly and chest straps, ensuring a snug fit without restricting movement. It also includes a reflective chest strap, which is especially useful for early morning or evening walks.

Once your puppy is fitted with a comfortable harness and a dependable leash, you’re ready to begin training.

Step 3: Let Your Puppy Get Used to the Gear

Introducing your puppy to a leash and harness should be a gradual, positive experience. Start by letting them sniff and explore the gear indoors. Put the harness on for a few minutes at a time and reward them with praise, treats, or play. Make it a fun, non-threatening experience.

Next, attach the leash indoors and let your puppy drag it behind them while supervised. This helps them get used to the sensation of something being connected to them. Avoid picking up the leash right away – this step is purely about comfort and familiarity.

If your puppy shows signs of stress (freezing, biting the leash, or trying to wriggle out of the harness), take a step back and go slower. Positive reinforcement is your best friend here. The goal is to make the leash and harness feel like normal parts of life, not a punishment or restriction.

Step 4: Practice Indoors First

Once your puppy seems comfortable with the harness and leash, begin practicing walking indoors. Choose a quiet, low-distraction area like your living room or hallway. Hold the leash gently and encourage your puppy to follow you using a happy voice or high-value treats.

At this stage, your goals are simple:

• Help your puppy understand that walking beside you is rewarding
• Teach them that pulling or lunging doesn’t get them where they want to go
• Practice the cue “Let’s go” or “Heel” to signal it’s time to walk

If your puppy pulls ahead, stop walking. Wait for them to return to your side and then reward them before resuming. This method, known as “be a tree,” teaches your puppy that only calm, focused behavior gets progress.

Frequent short sessions are best- 5 to 10 minutes at a time is enough for young puppies.

Step 5: Move Outdoors

Once your puppy is doing well indoors, it’s time to venture outside. However, your first outdoor walks should be short and in quiet, familiar locations like your yard or driveway.

Remember, the outdoors introduces a flood of new distractions – smells, sounds, people, cars, and other animals. It’s completely normal for your puppy to get excited, distracted, or even scared.

To ease the transition:

• Bring treats and toys to keep your puppy focused
• Use calm encouragement and praise to build confidence
• Keep the leash loose and your own body language relaxed

If your puppy gets overwhelmed, go back to a quieter area and try again another day. Building leash confidence is a process – it’s not about how far you go, but how positively your puppy experiences each outing.

Step 6: Set a Routine and Stay Consistent

Puppies thrive on structure, so establishing a consistent walking routine helps reinforce good behavior. Try to walk at the same times each day, using the same gear and similar routes to build your puppy’s comfort and expectations.

During walks, continue to reinforce good behavior:

• Reward walking by your side
• Redirect pulling by stopping or changing direction
• Encourage attention with a cheerful tone or the occasional treat

As your puppy grows and gains confidence, you can explore new routes, increase walk length, and gradually introduce more distractions. But always go at your puppy’s pace.

Consistency is key. The more you repeat the same signals and expectations, the more your puppy will learn what you want.

Step 7: Troubleshooting Common Challenges

Even with the best tools and preparation, most puppies will face a few bumps during leash training. Here’s how to handle some common issues:

Pulling on the leash:
Stop walking the moment your puppy starts pulling. Wait until they return to your side, then continue. You can also change direction frequently to keep their attention on you.

Chewing the leash:
Redirect their focus with a toy or treat. Make sure the leash isn’t dragging where they can reach it and avoid turning it into a tug-of-war.

Fear or refusal to walk:
This often happens with very young puppies or in new environments. Sit with them calmly, offer treats, and speak reassuringly. Don’t drag them forward—go at their pace and build trust.

Distraction overload:
Keep early walks short and avoid busy areas. Reward focus and gradually build up to more stimulating environments.

Final Thoughts: Walking Into a Lifelong Bond

Leash training is more than a task – it’s a daily opportunity to bond with your puppy, build their confidence, and reinforce your leadership. It sets the foundation for every adventure you’ll take together, from strolls in the neighborhood to hikes in the hills.

Remember, every puppy is different. Some may master leash walking in a few days, while others take a bit longer. What matters most is that you stay consistent, patient, and encouraging.

Your puppy will thank you – not just with better behavior, but with the joy and freedom of every walk you’ll share for years to come.