Ask the Trainer - Frenchie Won’t Walk on a Leash
gollygear May 18th, 2008
My Frenchie is 4 mos old. He hates to go outside, especially on a leash. He has gotten better, and enjoys being in the backyard, playing frisbee or catch in a field, etc., but refuses to walk on a leash unless we’re headed home. On our puppy kindergarten trainers advice, we’re using a comfort harness, but we literally have to drag him a long block or so before he’ll start walking.
We have tried high value treats, but this doesn’t work. I’m afraid to use a choke collar for fear of damaging his neck, and some high head collars say not to be used in flat face breeds.
Any suggestions?
Hope writes -
Your little boy is showing his “bulldoggedness” early! The keys for training Frenchies (or any dog) are: patience, consistency, and praise.
To get your little guy used to a leash - let him drag it around the house while he’s “helping” you, doing normal household activities. If you’re using a retractable lead - stop. Just hook a light, four-foot or shorter lead to his collar and let him drag it around. Keep an eye out so it doesn’t get snagged on anything and that he doesn’t chew on it.
If it bothers him a lot, start with a short, light piece of string and work up to the leash.
Learning to “walk nice” on leash can be a slow process. The first month with Dax, I never made it past our own front yard! Go out with the puppy on leash and collar. If he’s walking around - good! Let him take the lead for a couple of steps. Then let him know you’re changing direction: “Here, puppy! We’re going this way!” and take a step or two, until the leash has no slack. Stay there. Be patient. As soon as he looks toward you, or makes any move in your direction, praise him! Tell him he’s wonderful. Make kissy noises! Laugh! Give cookies! And take another step or two to take up the slack. Your objective is to walk with your puppy on a loose leash - in the direction you choose to go. You won’t get anywhere quickly at first, but it will be worth it. You want your dog to be happy to take walks with you.
Hope
- French Bulldog Training
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