Leash training your dog is an important part of responsible Staffy ownership. It’s not only important for safety reasons, but it also allows you to take your pup out and enjoy the world with you. Proper leash training can help your Staffy learn to walk nicely on a lead, stay close while walking and come when called. This type of Staffy training is crucial so that you end up with a well-behaved, well-socialised adult dog.
Step 1: Gather The Right Supplies
Before you begin leash training your dog, make sure you have the right supplies. You’ll need a good quality leash that is comfortable for both of you. Look for one made from lightweight material that won’t break easily and is long enough for your dog to move freely without tugging at the leash. You may also want to get a harness or head collar, depending on what works best for your Staffy.
Step 2: Introduce Your Dog To The Leash
Once you have all the necessary supplies, it’s time to introduce your Staffy to the leash. Let them sniff and investigate it before clipping it onto their collar or harness. Make sure they are comfortable with the feel of the leash before moving forward with any further steps in training.
Step 3: Start Inside
To start with, practice inside where there are no distractions like other animals or people that could interfere with their learning process. Attach the leash and give them treats as they walk around while staying next to you. If they pull away, stop walking until they come back by your side again and then reward them with a treat once they do so. This will teach them that pulling away results in no movement while being near you results in rewards and treats!
Step 4: Move Outdoors
Once your Staffy has mastered leash walking indoors, it’s time to move outdoors! Start by taking short walks around familiar areas like the neighbourhood or local park where there aren’t too many distractions at first – this will help build confidence in their new skill set before introducing more complex environments like busy streets or crowded parks where there are more people and animals present. As always, reward them generously when they stay close by and don’t pull away from you during these walks!
Step 5: Practice Makes Perfect!
Just like anything else, practice makes perfect when it comes to leash training! Keep up with regular walks so that your Staffy doesn’t forget what they learned during previous sessions – over time this will help reinforce good behaviour until walking on a lead becomes second nature for them (and much more enjoyable for both of you).
By following these simple steps, soon enough both you and your Staffy will be out enjoying plenty of fun-filled walks together. Happy trails!
