It was a sunny morning when Ava decided to take her new puppy, Max, for his very first walk. She clipped on a shiny new leash, opened the door, and… Max sat down and refused to move. A tug, a treat, a bit of coaxing—nothing worked. Sound familiar?
Walking on a leash isn't something dogs are born knowing—it’s a skill they need to learn. And while it may look effortless when you see others strolling with their pups, behind every calm walk is a little bit of patience, consistency, and the right training.
Here’s how to help your puppy become a confident walker.
Step 1: Get Comfortable With the Gear
Before you step outside, begin by letting your puppy get used to their collar or harness and leash indoors. Attach the leash and let them drag it around the house while supervised. This helps them feel less intimidated by the gear.
Let them associate the leash with positive things—treats, praise, or play. The goal is to build a positive connection before the walk begins.
Step 2: Introduce a Sound Cue
Choose a sound cue that means “a treat is coming.” This could be a word like “Yes!”, a clicker, or even a tongue cluck. Say the sound while your pup is nearby and reward them the moment they look at you. This builds focus and a communication bridge between you and your dog.
Step 3: Encourage Movement Toward You
When your pup starts responding to the cue, take a few steps backward. As they come to you, reward them with praise and a treat. Gradually increase the distance so they begin to understand that following you = reward.
Remember: puppies have short attention spans. Stop training sessions while they’re still excited to do more!
Step 4: Practice Indoors
Before stepping outside, walk around inside your home with the leash on. Low-distraction environments help your pup focus on the basics—like walking beside you and responding to your voice. Don’t rush this step; confidence is built slowly.
Step 5: Take It Outside (Slowly)
The outdoors is full of new smells, sounds, and distractions. Keep your first walks short and sweet. If your pup looks like they’re about to lunge or get distracted, use your sound cue and take a few steps away to regain their attention—then reward!
With consistency and patience, your dog will learn to walk calmly and happily at your side.
Quick Tip: What to Do If Your Puppy Pulls
If your dog starts pulling in the other direction, turn yourself into a “tree.”
Stand still and refuse to move until they return to you. Don’t yank, jerk, or drag your pup forward. This teaches them that pulling won’t get them anywhere—but patience and staying close to you will.
✨ Bonus: A well-fitted harness can help reduce pulling behavior. KRBOBO harnesses are ergonomically designed to support natural movement while giving you better control, making training easier for you and more comfortable for your dog.
Walk In Style With KRBOBO
At KRBOBO, we believe walks should be joyful—for you and your pup. Our KRBOBO Walk Kit combines comfort, freedom, and style with a breathable harness, lightweight leash, and playful interchangeable patches. It’s designed for dogs on the move—and humans who love walking with flair.
🎉 This July, enjoy 15% off all walk kits!
To celebrate, the first 100 orders will receive a custom leather tag engraved with your dog’s name—perfect for showing off your pup’s unique personality.
💖 Even more meaningful:
Only these first 100 kits will also spark a special donation. For every one sold, KRBOBO will donate $2 to a dog rescue organization, made in your dog’s name—a small act of love that goes a long way.
✨ Use code KRBOBOJULY to claim your 15% off.
Because when you walk with KRBOBO, you walk with heart.