How to Train a Boxer Puppy to Walk on a Leash

True to their nature, your Boxer puppy is everything you hoped he would be. He’s devoted, playful, energetic, and not short of confidence. He’s certainly not shy about sitting at your feet staring lovingly up at you when you’re eating. He’s really brought the family together and the kids never seem to get bored of playing with him. Having said all that, he doesn’t quite score full marks across the board. He’s not so well behaved when it comes to securing him to a leash and taking him for a walk. In fact, you’re forever getting pulled in every direction.

Training him to walk on a leash when he is a puppy is essential. If you don’t, you may find he’s even harder to control when he’s bigger and stronger. This training will assert your position as the pack leader and instill some much-needed discipline. 

Fortunately, Boxers are intelligent dogs. This means he should be receptive to training. You will need to take a number of steps to prevent him from pulling. You will also need to use consistent obedience commands to keep him walking calmly while on a leash. The trick is finding the right incentive. Boxers, like most dogs, have a soft spot for anything they can eat. So, some tasty treats will play an important role during training.

If he’s particularly eager to please then you could see results in just a week or two. If he’s devious and not such a great listener, then be prepared to invest up to six weeks into training. Succeed with this training and you can have those relaxing strolls through the countryside you originally envisaged. Training now will also save you from considerable stress later on in life if he can’t behave on a leash.

Before you start training, you will need to go out and collect a few bits. Boxers are strong, even as puppies. So investing in a body harness may be wise. It will increase your control while reducing the strain on his neck.

You will also need a short training leash. A generous supply of tasty treats or small chunks of his favorite food will also be required. You can train when you normally take him out for walks.

Once you have all the above, just bring patience and a positive attitude, then work can begin!