How long does leash training take?
Written by
Victoria Hayes
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Dog leash training time varies depending on your dog's past and consistency. Most dogs will show significant improvement in three weeks of daily practice. For some dogs, complicated cases will take even two months if there has been severe pulling or reactivity. Several things will also determine this time frame, such as past training and characteristics of the breed.
Consistency is essential for securing quicker results. Instead of hour-long sessions each week, try five-minute daily sessions. Use the same techniques and commands every time. Record in a notebook the instances of pulling the leash for that day to keep track of your progress. Results will come quickly with this type of constant effort since they build good habits.
Training Consistency
- Daily sessions yield faster progress
- Multiple short drills beat infrequent long ones
- Family-wide technique consistency matters
- Document daily improvements
Challenge Management
- Start in low-distraction environments
- Increase difficulty weekly
- Monitor trigger distance reductions
- Adjust techniques for setbacks
Reinforcement Quality
- Use high-value treats initially
- Phase to praise and life rewards
- Match reward value to difficulty
- Time deliveries within 3 seconds
Character traits of the breed can affect a dog's learning speed. Herding breeds can respond to movement-based techniques in two weeks. Scent hounds often require about six weeks more with sniffing awards. Use the dog's instincts or tendencies in selecting the training methods and the goals that can be set for the dog.
Eliminate those common mistakes that prolong the training. Never punish pulling as it creates fear. Ensure the gear fits correctly as per the two-finger rule. Keep the sessions pleasant, finishing them before any feeling of frustration. Celebrate the small victories, such as reduced tension and quicker response, both of which are good motivational factors.
Read the full article: 7 Proven Steps for Leash Training Dogs
