Walking is a fundamental part of a dog's life. It is his contact with the outside world, with other places, noises, smells, people and animals beyond his home. Not only does he need it to relieve himself outside, but it also helps him socialize, exercise, play, expend energy, and explore.
However, the walk can be a most pleasant and enriching moment for the dog, or a frustrating and unpleasant experience for both the animal and the handler. And it is that it is very difficult to do it if the dog does not want to move forward, gets tangled up, crosses, jerks on the leash... The walk will be a constant fight between the two instead of fun. Therefore, it is very important to teach dogs to walk on a leash correctly from the time they are puppies.
To begin with, since puppies cannot be taken outside until they have the relevant vaccinations, it is convenient that you familiarize them with different environments, even if it is in your arms or a special backpack for them. Otherwise, when you finally get him out, he may get scared and not want to move forward. Also, you should get him used to wearing the collar or harness. Put it inside the house for short periods of time and reward it so that it associates it with something positive.
On the first walks, it is better to go to quiet areas, with little traffic and without too many distractions. This way the dog will be calmer and will pay attention to you in the teachings.
One of the key lessons is for the animal to walk alongside you instead of constantly crossing or ahead of you. To do this, hold the leash close to you but always without tension. As you go along, give him sweets at knee height. This way he will get used to walking with you.
You have to be very patient when walking with the puppies. It is something new for them and they may feel overwhelmed. Remember that it is a moment for him, not for you. Discard the goal of rushing, dragging or pulling it, as it is best to let the animal observe and smell everything that arouses its interest.
If, despite having given him time to investigate, your dog refuses to move forward, you should take the maximum distance with him that the leash allows, but always without pulling. Face the direction in which you want to move and call the dog to come to you. When he does, reward him and resume the march. Never go dragging him against his will, because that way you will only get a counterproductive effect.
Finally, you have to teach him that he cannot go yanking on the leash. To do this, whenever he notices that he pulls her too far, he slams on the brakes. Sooner or later the dog will come back to you. At that moment, he gives her a prize and resumes the march. In this way, he will learn that if he jerks you will not advance.
