Goal Behavior

The puppy chooses not to pull against the ground tether and keep a loose leash, while facing a mild distraction, such as food or a person engaging the puppy.

Why

This is the beginning of impulse control

Setup

• Puppy on leash
• Bait bag with plenty of treats

Get into Position

1. Handler stands firmly on the leash with the ball of the foot. Leash needs to be short enough so the puppy feels pressure if it moves away from the handler, but long enough that the collar will be loose when the puppy stands next to the handler, about 2 feet in length. Position is not important for this exercise.
2. Handler must stay in a stationary position and allow the puppy to test the ground tether.

Mark and reward the puppy for the following behavior

Keep in mind, rewards should be delivered close to the handler’s legs to help the puppy feel the loose collar.

• Not pulling on the collar or leash.
• Looking at the handler .
  
• If puppy tries to pull away from the ground tether, wait for the puppy to release the pressure, immediately mark and reward. Once the puppy is choosing to maintain a fully loose collar, handler should only mark a fully loose leash and collar.
• AL or assistant places a small distraction (a few kibble,or toy) on the floor outside of the puppy’s reach. This distraction should be enough to make the puppy to pull but not get excited. As soon as the puppy releases the pressure immediately mark and reward the puppy. If puppy remains with a loose collar, continue to reward intermittently. Keep practicing until the puppy shows understanding of a loose leash.
• Once puppy continues to offer a loose leash with a small distraction increase the level of distractions (example, leaves, sticks, toilet paper, socks, high value food, etc.)