leashing a fearful dog

Question
W have adopted a 9 month male chow with some issues. We are having a big problem trying to put a leash on him. He will play with leash on the ground but to have us pick it up and try to leash him, he runs. can you help us with this problem? We have tried treats and carrying the leash in our pockets, all good till we try to put it on him.
HELP!!!

Answer

Hi Gayle,

Have you tried using a shoulder harness on your dog, instead of a neck collar? You might have more success with attaching a leash to a different location.

Sometimes it just takes time to desensitize a dog to whatever fear it has. Try this: without attaching the leash- pick up the leash, toss him a treat-drop the leash. Repeat several times. End the session

Next session, repeat the same steps a few times, then, instead of dropping the leash, reach out with your empty hand and touch his collar - have a friend give him a treat - then drop the leash. Repeat several times then end the session.

Next session, pick up the leash, move the leash towards his collar, toss a treat - withdraw the leash - drop the leash. Repeat several times then end the session.

Next session - repeat the previous sequences a few times - except - when the leash is close to his collar, operate the clip so that it makes a sound. Repeat several times then end the session.

The idea is to gradually introduce him to all aspects of attaching the leash before you ever clip it to his collar.

The next sessions, you might actually attach it for a second or two - tell him how pretty he is - give a treat - remove the leash.

Next, get a thin, light, nylon leash. Cut it off so that it's only 2-3'. Attach the leash and let him drag it around the house. Don't pick it up yet.

Once he is comfortable dragging the leash, gradually introduce him to the concept of you holding the leash - in small steps with plenty of treats. Pick up the leash - hold for a second - give a treat - drop the leash.

Use your imagination to break down the whole process into small steps. Practice each small step several times before moving to the next step. Be patient, it takes weeks or months to desensitize a fearful dog, and you can't force it.

Best of luck,

Patti