How To Stop Your Puppy From Biting His Leash

When you start to walk your puppy on a leash, some puppies take to it instantly, while other puppies need a little help. It’s very common for a puppy to bite on his leash because he is excited and still learning the proper way to walk. It’s also a way to get attention from you and not on the actual walk itself. 

Below are some tips to try to get your puppy or dog to stop biting on his or her leash:

When you are ready to take a walk, take out your leash calmly

When you are getting ready to go on a walk, take out your leash calmly. Don’t make an event out of it or even change your tone, as you can over excite your dog. Instead, calmly grab your puppy’s leash, ask him to sit, and secure it to his collar or harness. Don't clap or even say a word.

Try to get your pup’s attention when he goes to bite the leash

If your puppy goes for the leash, try to get his attention when he goes in for a bite. Don’t ever yank the leash out of his mouth but say a sharp ‘no’ and tell your dog to sit. This practice always works best if you catch him just as he's snapping at the leash. If he's already fully engaged with the leash, you're going to have a much harder time getting him to listen.

Teach your puppy or dog the ‘drop’ command if he bites his leash

Teach your puppy the "drop" command. While this won't stop your puppy from grabbing on to the leash in the first place, it does give you an easy way to make your pup drop it! Start out by grabbing one of your puppy's favorite toys and giving it to him. The second he takes it, whip out a treat and offer it to him. Say "drop." Keep doing this a few times each day until he drops whatever is in his mouth on command.

Puppies usually do well with a comfortable harness

If you clip your puppy's leash onto his collar, it usually tends to hang down, often in front of or to the side of his mouth. Instead, try to find a harness that your dog likes as the leash is positioned more toward his shoulders and back. Your puppy might still be able to grab it, but your puppy will l have to make an real effort to do so, and it is not dangling (and tempting him).

Give your puppy a toy to carry until he has learned to stop leash biting

If all else fails, give your dog a toy or ball to carry while walking. Even if you do everything you can to discourage leash chewing, your puppy might still do it until he eventually outgrows it. Keep his favorite toy at your side while you go for walks and offer it to him in place of his leash. Even some grown dogs prefer to carry something in their mouths while on walks.

Be patient and consistent with the training

Remember that training takes time and patience. Each puppy is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. Be consistent with your training and remain calm. Puppies are highly attuned to your emotions, and if you become frustrated, they may become more anxious or excited, making the behavior worse.

Celebrate small victories and keep practicing. Over time, your puppy will learn the appropriate way to walk on a leash, and you’ll both enjoy your outings together.

There are many ways to stop your dog from biting his leash and you will find the best method for your puppy. If you curb the behavior during puppyhood, it will make walking much more pleasurable for both of you.