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Step one: "Let's Go" -Using the Long Line:
Continue using this exercise at the beginning of every training session so that the pup has a chance to burn some energy's off. It is also a good idea to end a session with ""LET'S GO" as well so that the training session ends on a fun
Step Two: "Heel" On Leash
In this session, shorten the leash so that the puppy is directly on your left leg. Place your arms in a relaxed position at your sides and hold the leash in two hands. Start off by saying the pup's name and commanding "HEEL", stepping out with your left foot first. Your pup will learn to watch your body language, even leg movements, if you are consistent from the beginning. If the puppy is trying to pull ahead, pop the lead sideways and command "HEEL". If necessary, stop moving forward and get control of the pup by resetting him and try again.
The degree of correction depends on the puppy's pull as well as its temperament. If you have a shy soft puppy be careful you don't over correct. On the other hand if you have a huge strong German shepherd that is too powerful for you, a choke chain may be required. When used properly your dog will learn to respond to the sound of the links as they touch each other when you are about
to make a correction not after you make the correction. Apply what is needed to regain control and settle the puppy.
Remember to place the pup in a "SIT" position every time you come to a halt and stop walking. Praise the pup and repeat the exercise.
Step Three: "Sit -Stay", adding distance:
Your puppy should be responding to the "SIT" command on his own by Session 3. If not, coach and place him when needed. They still get easily distracted. Don't get frustrated and above all remember this is a puppy. When the puppy is in a "SIT" at your left leg, command him to "STAY" and use the hand signal. When he is calm, step out on your right foot taking 1 big step, turn and face the pup. If he gets up, reach over him quickly and replace him in the "SIT". Steady him with "Stay" and back away from him again. In the beginning, 10 to 20 seconds is long enough to hold the Stay. Make sure you swing back beside your pup before you give the release word “OK“.
Step Four: "Recall", adding distance:
"SIT" the puppy on your leg. Command "WAIT". With confidence, step out, right foot first and walk to the end of the leash. Turn to face him and wait a few moments then crouch down, calling his name and "COME" at the same time. Taking a few steps backwards will motivate him to come to you quicker. As he reaches you, command "SIT" and apply steady tension upwards to the leash and collar. This forces his rear to the ground and his body into an easy "SIT" in front of yourself. This needs to be trained from an early age so that the pup is under control when he greets you (especially in wet or dirty weather).
Step Five: "Down - Stay":
Place your puppy in the "DOWN" position as learned in session 2. Give the "STAY" signal along with the verbal command Stay. Steady the pup at first until he is calm and comfortable. Slowly rise to an upright position beside the puppy. If the puppy moves from the "DOWN" position, quickly replace him again with a gentle sweeping motion. When he calms gain, return to the upright position. Hold the positions for 10 to 20 seconds to start then release with "OK" and praise heavily.
Step Six: "Stand for Examination":
Place the puppy in a "STAND" position as you learned in session 2. Once he is steady, start to do an examination on your pup. Gently open his mouth, look into his ears, lift the eyelids, run your hand over the pup's spine, then down the tail. Feel each leg down to the foot, touch the belly, rib area and chest and the back to the head area again. Every once in a while go over the pup with a cloth or towel so that he gets used to material touching his skin and of course, grooming is a natural part of the Stand for Examination too. If your pup is still insecure with the grooming part, have another person do the "toadying" while you groom. This is temporary coaching. Continue using the long line for "LET'S GO" and energy burn off but try to change the locations whenever you can so that the pup gets used to being around different distractions. (mall parking lots, farm fields, parks, etc.) The more your puppy is exposed to the more balanced he will become.
