iHeartDogs is reader supported. Some of the links below may be paid affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on a product at no additional cost to you.
5 Vital Strategies to Help Your Papillon with Loose Leash Walking
Leash pulling is a common problem among dogs, and Papillons are no exception. These little dogs may be small, but they can be surprisingly strong, and their pulling behavior can be frustrating for both the dog and the owner. It’s important to address this behavior early on to prevent it from becoming a habit. Fortunately, there are many techniques and strategies you can use to help your Papillon learn to walk calmly on a leash. In this article, we’ll explore some of the common reasons why dogs pull on the leash and offer tips and advice for training your Papillon to walk nicely on a leash.
1. Start with Basic Training for Your Papillon
“But wait,” you say. “I just want my Papillon to stop pulling on the leash! Do I really need ‘basic training’ too?”
The answer is: it depends. While its possible to train your Papillon to stop pulling on the leash without training other commands, all training becomes easier if you start with a solid foundation, such as training your Papillon basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “come.” (as an aside, if you’re looking for a solid overall training program, we really like the K9 Training Institute’s program or SpiritDog’s program, both of which include modules on leash pulling)
Before heading out for a walk, spend some time training your dog inside your home or in your yard. Use positive reinforcement methods such as treats, praise, and affection to reward your dog for good behavior. This will help your dog to associate good behavior with positive rewards.
2. Buy a No-Pull Harness for Your Papillon
A no-pull dog harness is an excellent tool for training your Papillon to stop leash pulling. Unlike a traditional collar or harness, a no-pull harness is designed to discourage your dog from pulling by gently applying pressure to their chest. When your dog starts to pull, the harness will tighten, and your dog will feel a slight discomfort that will discourage them from pulling. Using a no-pull harness can be a safe and effective way to train your Papillon to walk calmly on a leash.
We love the Rabbitgoo brand no-pull harness on Amazon, which has almost 150,000 reviews.
3. Be Consistent: When Your Papillon Starts Pulling, STOP Walking
Consistency is key when training your Papillon to loose leash walk. It’s essential to use the same techniques every time you take your dog for a walk. For example, if your dog starts to pull, stop walking and wait for your dog to calm down before continuing. Be patient and persistent, and your dog will eventually learn that pulling won’t get them where they want to go.
4. Use Positive Reinforcement like Training Treats
Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective training techniques for stopping leash pulling. When your Papillon walks calmly by your side, reward them with treats, praise, and affection. This will help your dog to associate good behavior with positive rewards, making them more likely to repeat that behavior in the future. Avoid punishing your dog for pulling, as this can make the problem worse by increasing their anxiety and frustration.
Our test pups LOVE these bacon flavored Pet Botanics training treats. They are small enough size that you can give a lot of them, and not overdo calories.
We’d also recommend a handy training treats pouch you can wear on your belt during walks.
5. Try an Online Dog Training Course for Your Papillon
If you’re struggling to teach your Papillon loose leash walking, it may be time to seek professional help through and online dog training course. A professional dog trainer can provide you with personalized advice and techniques to address your specific issues. They can help you to identify the root cause of your dog’s pulling and provide you with effective solutions to correct the behavior. With the help of a professional trainer, you can teach your Papillon to walk calmly on a leash, making walks more enjoyable for both you and your furry friend.
Our 2 Favorite Online Training Programs for Papillon Leash Pulling
- SpiritDog makes an excellent and affordable training course called “Loose Leash Walking” that’s an excellent resource for Papillon owners. The course promises to teach your Papillon to stop pulling in 10 minutes a day. You can also get feedback from real, professional dog trainers.
- K9 Training Institute Makes an Excellent, Well Rounded Dog “Masterclass” that includes modules on loose leash walking. While it’s a bit pricier than SpiritDog, it offers a solid foundation and solutions to nearly any behavior challenge you might face. The course uses the same material that professionals use to train service dogs, so the quality of the material is top notch.
In conclusion, teaching your Papillon to walk on a leash without pulling is a crucial skill that can improve both your and your dog’s walking experience. Remember that patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement are key when training your dog to walk politely on a leash. It’s important to understand your Papillon personality and adapt your training methods accordingly. By using gentle training techniques and making walks a positive experience, you can help your Papillon become a well-behaved walking companion. With some dedication and effort, you can teach your Papillon to walk calmly by your side, making walks more enjoyable for both of you.
Toledo, United States.
