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March 07, 2013

I have a stubborn puppy who refuses to walk on the lead. Is it just his age? Is he genuinely too young and scared of the outside world? Or is he playing on my love and gullibility?

Full Question:

I have a question regarding training your pup to walk on a leash.

I have an 11 week old Boston Terrier who as he gets comfortable and settles in (almost 2 weeks now), his stubbornness is starting to shine more and more.

There are many mixed ideas on puppies who refuse to walk on the lead. (Not pulling on the lead but digging in as best he can and pulling back, refusing to walk forward). From treat coaxing (doesn't work with my guy) to running with him (also does not work) to just pulling dragging until he walks (also does not work well and I feel horrible/worried as I'm unsure about this.)

Is it just his age? Is he genuinely too young and scared of the outside world? Or is he playing on my love and gullibility?

I don't want to push him as he is just a wee one, but i also don't want to aide in allowing or starting bad habits.

Cindy's Answer:

I don’t believe in labeling puppies as stubborn, I would back up your thought process and teach this puppy markers. Give the puppy a reason to do as you ask, build value in your relationship.

Usually when pups don’t want to go forward it is insecurity, not stubbornness.

I’d read the article Ed wrote on The Groundwork to Becoming your Puppy’s Pack Leader.

I would read our article on training dogs with Markers.

I’d also recommend The Power of Training Dogs with Markers and Your Puppy 8 Weeks to 8 Months.

You may want to just let him wear the leash and collar (or harness) and get used to dragging it around the house while you are supervising.

Cindy Rhodes

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