Tether Training

Question
We have lab/beagle mix and he has just started to want to take off an go down the road. So we bought him a tether to keep him in the yard. He hates it and he believes that something has a hold of him. We never tried to leash train him because we live in the country just near the road, so we just figured no need. I was just wondering the proper way to go about it so he can be in the yard by himself and be safe.

Answer
The short answer is that he cannot be alone in the yard and be safe.  There should always be a human close by to supervise any dog while it is outdoors.  Dogs have chocked, been stolen, and been attacked by stray dogs or coyotes while alone on tethers - it just isn't a great idea.  A chain link kennel on a concrete slab might be a better alternative, since Beagles are often diggers, too. As to leash training, here's an article that might help you: http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?P=A&A=1543