Leash training

Putting a leash on a dog is as natural for us as getting dressed, but to a puppy mill survivor, it can be traumatic and terrifying. Many view it as a snake that is about to attack.

We suggest harnesses for all puppy mill dogs. Puppy Mill survivors may have never had a leash on in their lives. Start slowly. First let them get used to the feel of the harness. Allow them to wear it around the house where they are comfortable. Some dogs will actually lay down and refuse to move the first time a harness is worn, some will actually try to bit at the harness, but don’t give up. They will get used to the felling and eventually pay no attention to it.

Once your mill survivor has gotten used to the harness, snap the leash on. At this point, do not try to lead the dog anywhere. Allow them to drag the leash. There will be some panic at first. Some dogs will try to run from the “monster” that is chasing them, others may freeze, some will actually attack the leash. Whatever their response is, know that it is temporary and they are acting out of pure fear. This response does not usually last long, maybe a few minutes to as much as a half hour. The worst thing you can do is give up and remove the leash. Allow the dog to come to terms with it in their own way. We suggest that this is done indoors so there is less chance of flight (running away).

Ok, so now they realize that the leash is not about to eat them, what next? We occasionally pick up the leash and hold it without pulling the dog or putting pressure on the harness.  This is done many, many times throughout the day.  If your mill survivor will accept food treats, this is the perfect time to give a few. 

Now you can start to lead the dog in the direction you want them to go. NEVER pull the dog by the leash. 

Most mill survivors are submissive and tend to follow rather than lead. While holding the leash and speaking softly to the dog, take a few steps away and try to get the dog to follow you, then a few more. It is a slow process but the least traumatic on the dog.  Some dogs are more resistant than others. We have occasionally had to move a few steps away and sit down on the ground to get them to move toward us. When they do, they are praised and we move a few more feet away, repeating the process until they follow easily.  With patience and persistence, your mill survivor will be leash trained and ready to explore its new world.

***An important note**** NEVEAR leave a leash on a dog that is unattended. The last thing you need is for them to become hung up on something and panic possibly hurting themselves.