Goal

Puppy chooses to ignore a variety of distractions by keeping a loose leash, engaging with the handler and thereby showing an understanding of impulse control.

The session will allow for the handler to practice applying fixed pressure, marking and rewarding the puppy for choosing to make a right decision. Duration of time between distraction being presented and rewarded will slowly be increased as success warrants.

Set Up

• Quiet controlled environment
• Suitable distractions
• Puppy on leash

Procedure

1. The handler stands holding the puppy on the leash. The leash needs to be short enough so the puppy feels pressure if he 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. The handler must stay in a stationary position with the leash tethered to their left leg in a position level with the puppy’s neck. If you have a small puppy, you will need to bend over.  

Mark and reward the puppy for the following behavior.

• Puppy stops pulling on the leash (increase duration between marks)
• Puppy notices distraction but chooses not to pull towards it.
• Puppy looks at the handler when distraction is present. Rewards should be delivered close to the handler’s leg to help the puppy feel the loose collar.  
• If the puppy tries to pull away from the ground tether, wait for the puppy to release the pressure, then immediately mark and reward. Once the puppy is choosing to fully loosen collar, handler should only mark a fully loose leash and collar.
• Area Leader or assistant places a small distraction (a few kibbles) on the floor outside of the puppy’s reach. This distraction is enough to make the puppy pull but not excited. As soon as the puppy releases the pressure, immediately mark and reward the puppy. If the puppy remains with a loose collar, continue to reward him intermittently. Keep going until the puppy shows understanding of loose leash. Once the puppy consistently offers a loose leash in the presence of small distractions, increase the level of distractions (e.g., leaves, sticks, toilet paper, socks, high value food, etc.)