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Rebel

Leash and collar training for a Blue Heeler/Border collie mix

I have been trying with my 12 week old Blue Heller/ Border Collie mix puppy Rebel to get him used to a collar and leash his mother was the same way with a collar and leash she would try to choak herself so I had to get her on a harness. Rebel is a different story he will slip a dang harness easily i don't know how but he does and he fights the collar and leash I just want him to get used to a leash and collar cause we leave beside a highway and when I usally take his mom out I put her on a leash till we make it to the pasture where I can turn ner loose to play and she also stays on a leash when I take her walking we got too many loose dogs in my town I have better respect for my neighbors though and keep my dogs on leashes and pened at night. please help me with some suggestions for Rebel.


Asked by Rebel on Aug 9th 2011 Tagged blueheelersbordercollies in Behavior & Training
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Dingo

Where to start...

First of all, don't force anything on the puppy. Just putting a collar and leash on him and expecting him to like it is... well.

The collar should ALWAYS mean good things. Here is what I suggest to undo the damage: Put the collar on the floor. Treat the pup whenever he comes near it, sniffs it, paws it, etc. After he is comfortable with the collar on the floor (this may take some time. DO NOT rush!!) pick it up and move it toward his head slowly and gently. Treat him when he is calm and steady with the idea of you reaching toward him with something in your hand. When he is comfortable with this, move on to putting it on him. If he flinches, moves away or is otherwise uncomfortable, end the session and come back later. Keep trying, treating when he tolerates the collar touching him and then around his neck. Never use the collar as a punishment tool. Never force something on a puppy that distresses him. A puppy is a sponge. Don't let him soak up bad experiences.


Dingo answered on 8/11/11. Helpful? Yes/Helpful: No 0 Report this answer


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