Practical Steps for New Puppy Parents

Leash walking may seem like second nature for dogs, but the truth is that it’s a skill that must be taught. Whether you're a first-time dog owner or welcoming a new puppy into your home, starting leash training early lays the foundation for safe and enjoyable walks for years to come.

Tip: The best age to start leash training a puppy is as early as 8–12 weeks old. However, the training approach varies by age and developmental stage

At Fei And Eve, we believe every pet journey should begin with confidence, connection, and comfort. That’s why we’ve outlined a simple, effective leash-training approach to help you and your pup walk in sync—stress-free.

1. Get Comfortable with the Gear

Start by introducing your puppy to their collar or harness and leash. Let them wear it around the house during playtime and reward them with treats. The goal? Help your dog associate the gear with fun and positive experiences.

Tip: Our MagEase technology makes it easy to secure or remove the collar and harness with just one hand, perfect for busy hands and wiggly pups.

2. Establish a Focus Cue

Teach your dog to pay attention by using a consistent sound like "yes!" or a click, rewarding immediately when they make eye contact. This builds a reliable way to regain their focus during walks when distractions arise.  

3. Try Indoor Walking First

Begin leash training in a quiet, familiar space. Use treats to encourage your dog to walk beside you, stop if they pull, and reward when the leash is loose. Change directions frequently to keep them engaged.  

Tip: Start with short sessions (5–10 mins) to avoid overwhelming your dog. 

4. Move to Controlled Outdoor Settings

Transition to short outdoor sessions in low-distraction areas, using your focus cue to redirect attention. Keep initial walks brief and positive, gradually increasing difficulty as your dog improves.  

5. Reinforce Consistently

Always reward loose-leash walking and address pulling by stopping movement until the leash relaxes. For persistent pullers, consider a front-clip harness for better control while maintaining training consistency. 

Common Mistakes:  

❌ Using a retractable leash (early on) → Reduces control.  

❌ Inconsistent rules → Ensure all family members use the same cues. 

Troubleshooting Common Leash Challenges

• Pulling in the other direction? Stop walking and wait. When your dog returns to you, reward them. Avoid yanking the leash or dragging your dog along with you.
  
  

• Lunging after something? Distract with a treat before they lunge. Create space from triggers like other dogs or fast-moving objects.
  
  

• Barking? Make sure your pup’s getting enough physical and mental stimulation. Use distance and treats to redirect their attention calmly.

Patience and Practice Pay Off

Every dog learns at their own pace. With consistency, positive reinforcement, and the right tools, leash walking can become a smooth, enjoyable part of your daily routine.

At Fei And Eve, we design with ease, safety, and style in mind, so you and your dog can focus on bonding, not battling with gear.

Ready to take the first step? If you like more guidance, let me know!