How to introduce a slip lead to a puppy/dog

Introducing a slip lead to a young dog is less about "training heel" immediately and more about teaching them a new language: Pressure and Release.

If a puppy panics, it is usually because they feel the constriction and their instinct tells them to fight it (pull away), which only tightens the lead further. You need to override this instinct by teaching them that moving with the pressure makes it stop.

Here is the step-by-step method to introduce the tool without fear.

Phase 1: The "Necklace" (Zero Pressure)

Before you ever use the lead to walk the dog, they must accept wearing it.

  1. Mealtime Association: As you prepare their food, slip the lead over their head. Let it hang loose (ensure the stopper is adjusted so it doesn't fall off, but isn't tight).

  2. Eat and Remove: Let them eat their meal wearing the "necklace." As soon as they finish, take it off.

  3. Repeat: Do this for 3–4 days. The dog will start to see the slip lead and think "Dinner time!" rather than "Restriction."

Phase 2: The "Yield" Game (Stationary)

Now you teach the dog how to turn off the pressure. Do this in a boring room with no distractions (e.g., the kitchen).

  1. Sit and Fit: Put the lead on, ensuring it is in the "Sweet Spot" (high behind the ears).

  2. Apply Gentle Tension: With the dog standing or sitting, apply very gentle upward or sideways pressure. Just enough to move the skin, not drag the dog.

  3. Wait for the Give: The dog might resist slightly. Wait. The second—literally the millisecond—the dog moves their head or body toward the pressure to relieve it, slacken the lead instantly and say "Good!" or "Yes!"

  4. Repeat: Do this from different angles. You are programming a binary logic: Tight = I need to move; Loose = I am safe.

Phase 3: The "Follow Me" (Movement)

Move to the garden or a quiet yard. Do not try to walk in a straight line yet.

  1. Wander Aimlessly: Walk in random patterns (circles, figures of eight). Keep the lead loose.

  2. The Turn: If the dog gets ahead of you, simply turn 180 degrees and walk the other way.

  3. The Self-Correction: As you turn, the lead will tighten gently. The dog (having learned Phase 2) will feel that pressure and instinctively speed up to catch up to your leg to loosen it.

  4. The Reward: When they catch up to your leg and the lead goes slack, praise them verbally ("Good heel").

Critical Troubleshooting: The "Panic Roll"

Sometimes, a puppy may feel the lead tighten and freak out—jumping, alligator rolling, or screaming.

  • DO NOT: Yank the dog, shout, or try to soothe them with "It's okay."

  • DO: Freeze. Hold the lead steady with just enough tension to keep them from bolting, but do not pull back. Be a statue.

  • The Resolution: Eventually, the puppy will stop thrashing and look at you. The moment they go still and the lead slackens even a fraction, praise calmly and move forward. They learn that fighting the lead achieves nothing, but calmness releases them.