How to Introduce a Puppy to a Collar and Leash

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

A collar and leash are your puppy's first connection to the outside world. Getting them comfortable with the gear early, in a relaxed, rewarding way, prevents fear and sets up loose-leash walking. Rushing can lead to resistance, so go step by step.

Choosing equipment

• Collar. A flat buckle or snap collar with an ID tag is a good start. Choose a lightweight style.
• Harness. A well-fitted, comfortable harness spreads pressure across the chest and is a good option for small breeds or puppies that pull. Choose one that does not restrict shoulders.
• Leash. A lightweight leash of about 1.2 to 1.8 meters (four to six feet) is suitable for training. Avoid retractable leashes for training, because they encourage pulling and can cause injuries.
• Avoid choke chains, prong collars and shock collars. They can cause pain and fear.

Getting the fit right

Collars should be snug, with room for two fingers between the collar and neck. Harnesses should not rub the armpits or slip off. Check fit weekly in growing puppies, because they outgrow gear fast. Remove collars or harnesses when your puppy is in a crate or playing with other dogs unsupervised, if there is a risk of catching.

Step 1: collar or harness introduction

1. Show your puppy the collar and give a treat.
2. Touch the collar to the puppy and treat.
3. Fasten it for a few seconds while feeding treats, then remove it.
4. Gradually lengthen the time it is on, and distract with play or food.
5. Do not remove the collar when your puppy scratches, or it may learn that scratching works. Wait for a moment of calm, then remove.

Step 2: attach the leash

1. Let your puppy drag a lightweight leash indoors under supervision for short periods.
2. Pick up the end and follow the puppy around, rewarding when it looks at you.
3. Avoid pulling the leash.
4. Practice calling your puppy to you with the leash on, rewarding with treats. See our guide to first commands.

Step 3: first steps

1. Hold a treat by your leg and encourage your puppy to follow a few steps.
2. Reward often for staying close.
3. Use a cheerful voice and keep the leash loose.
4. End the session before your puppy gets bored.

Step 4: go outside

When your vet clears your puppy for outings, take the leash practice outside, starting in a quiet place. See when puppies can go outside. Keep outings short, and let your puppy sniff. Our guide to exercise limits by age helps you set realistic distances.

Common problems

Freezing or refusing to move

Do not drag. Crouch, call cheerfully and use treats. Go back to indoor practice if needed.

Biting the leash

Offer a toy or treat, or use a leash that is less tempting. Redirect to a chew toy.

Pulling

Stop moving when the leash tightens, and walk on when it loosens. Reward the puppy for walking beside you.

Scratching at the collar

Distract with a treat or toy, and take breaks. Make sure the collar fits.

Fear of the harness

Introduce it slowly, feeding treats through the harness opening, then fasten it briefly.

Safety

• Always attach an ID tag, and consider a microchip. See our guide to microchipping.
• Never leave a puppy tied up or unsupervised on a leash.
• Do not use leashes to jerk or correct your puppy.

The takeaway

Introduce gear slowly, reward calm behavior and keep sessions short and fun. Within days many puppies are happy to see the leash come out.