October 10, 2022
My 4-month-old puppy is afraid to walk on leash away from our home. How can we build her confidence?
Full Question:
We are trying to leash train our 4 mo. old miniature schnauzer. I have purchased and viewed your puppy video, which as been very helpful. Our dog really doesn't have a problem walking with the leash, but won't do it because she is afraid of unfamiliar territory beyond her home turf. How can we build her confidence so that she will walk with us? 
Cindy's Answer:
This is a pretty normal phase of puppy development. I have a puppy of the same age and she's very reluctant to leave the house so I often pick her up and take her a short distance from home and then walk her back. If you try to force her to leave home it will make her more worried and this is a phase they usually outgrow if you don't make a big deal out of it.
We have a large property (40+ acres) so I carry her a short distance down the driveway and then we walk together back to the house. I know from raising lots of puppies that this will almost always pass with age and experience.
I'd also reward her with food when she makes any attempt to go with you so it's a positive experience.
We have a large property (40+ acres) so I carry her a short distance down the driveway and then we walk together back to the house. I know from raising lots of puppies that this will almost always pass with age and experience.
I'd also reward her with food when she makes any attempt to go with you so it's a positive experience.
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