Many people believe dogs are born with the ability to walk nicely on a lead, but this is a thing that must be learned as early as possible. It's a crucial skill to teach dogs during their puppy phase, making walks a pleasant time for both the dog and the person walking them.

The puppy's first walks will benefit their physical and emotional well-being, provide them with exercise, teach them discipline, and strengthen the bond between them and the owner. And, needless to say, happy and healthy puppies grow up to be happy and healthy adult dogs as well!

Here are our top suggestions for dog walkers embarking on their first puppy walks.

Let the puppy get used to the collar and lead

The collar and lead can become the pup's best friends, but it needs to be introduced as early as possible. First, the puppy needs to be accustomed to wearing a collar and a lead before actually going out.

Allowing the puppy to wear them around an enclosed space for brief amounts of time while playing with them and giving goodies is a good way to teach them to love the collar and lead. Because food and enjoyment are associated with collar-and-lead time, the puppy should start to like it right away.

Come up with a cue for recall

When they get out into the real world, puppies can be a bit overwhelmed by the surroundings, which is why the person walking them needs to learn how to get their attention when necessary. This can be done by teaching them a cue, which signals to the puppy that it's reward time.

The method is the same regardless of the cue used, which can be a clicker, a word, or even clucking your tongue. Make the sound in a calm, distraction-free place with the dog on a lead and collar. Reward the puppy with a goodie the moment they turn toward you. After a few repetitions, the puppy will not only turn towards the sound but will approach you for the reward.

Practice dog walking inside

Practice taking a few steps in an indoor space with minimal distractions now that the puppy has learned how to respond to the cue. It will be enough of a challenge for them to feel and see the lead around them, so they don't need more external stimuli. As the dog becomes accustomed to approaching the walker while on a lead, they should be rewarded with goodies and praise.

Explore the outside world at their pace

Finally, it's time to take the puppy to the great outdoors. This phase will be a bit challenging at first since all of the outdoor noises, scents, and sights will be unfamiliar and fascinating. Take short walks at first and arm yourself with patience.

Allow the puppy to take their time and go somewhere peaceful. Some pups will be ecstatic to explore the world, while others may be more reserved, so let them set the pace, stop, sniff, and explore.

Make your cue sound and move a few steps away if your puppy appears to become distracted while you're on a walk, then reward them a treat. Remember to offer plenty of encouraging words and comfort to ensure the puppy had a good time and wants to do it again!