Hi, I have now got my labrador puppy, but he was 14 weeks old and I have had him a week. He wasn't injected so having to start from scratch but 6 weeks older. He is doing well but I am having difficulty getting him to walk with his lead on in the garden . He just sits down. Any ideas please. Thanks Dave
Hi Dave , and welcome from me and my dogs This is a very common problem so you aren't alone . What I tended to do was to put the collar and lead on indoors, under supervision of course, but to let puppy wander around and get the feel of it , even feeding with the collar and lead on , then progress to the garden . Must add that collars and leads shouldn't be worn in the house or garden unless the puppy is watched at all times, but try this and good luck
You could try luring your pup with a treat - hold something delicious, like a piece of chicken, close to his nose, walk a few steps forward and then give it to him. Repeat! (But keep each session very short.) When he's beginning to get the hang of it introduce a word ( I say 'walking' but others use 'heel'.) Then try keeping the treat in a closed fist but with your hand by your side so he can still smell it - again reward frequently. The next stage would be to have the treat in your pocket, but still reward every few steps. Most Labs are very motivated by food!
Good advice above. Just wanted to say hi and welcome. I didn't persevere with loose lead walking and wish I did when she was younger. Give him time to settle as he has only been with you a week.
