Leashes are important for a dog’s well-being. They allow us to take them on walks to relieve stress and boredom and are one of the fundamentals in training. Introducing this tool is vital for all dogs, but is especially helpful for those dogs in need of adoption as it may allow us to give the dog more public appearances.

Introducing a leash is easier for some dogs than others. At only eight weeks, Badger here wasn’t sure about this new contraption.

At first he was eager to see the great outdoors, but soon he found the sensation of the leash unbearable. If your dog sits and refuses to move, don’t worry, patience, coaxing, and praise go a long way.

A good fitting martingale collar is helpful for those dogs who try to back out of their collar. Keep up with the coaxing, praising for every step forward. A clicker may help, as it allows you to mark the behavior of the dog walking forward, letting your dog know what it is doing right the second it does the action you want.

You want to teach your dog that the leash means fun. Do something with your dog that they greatly enjoy, such as playing with a toy, or going to the beach.

For Badger, that something was playing in the mud! Now he’s forgotten about the leash and is enjoying the sunshine.

Keep sessions short and wonderful and soon your dog will be excited at the sight of the leash.

Badger is now enjoying walks with his new family.