put leash on dakota and he freaked!

[LEAPY]

we have had dakota for 2 1/2 weeks he is 4 months old and since we have had him he's come along way... he sits for treats,potty trained and doesn't hide from us anymore...however when we tried to adjust the collar he didn't like that then a couple of days later put a leash on him on the collar he ran and hid,then we tried to take it off he growled and nipped,after getting it off he stayed away from us.the next day he is fine.any advise?

[fergie]

I have read that when getting a puppy used to a collar, simply let him examine it first, for a few days. Leave it on the floor... Let him sniff it etc. Eventually, what you might want to do (with his favorite treats in hand) is put the collar on for intervals and gradually work your way up. Start with a few minutes and plenty of positive reinforcement and over a gradual period of time he will likely get used to it. He must...you are the boss, not him! Also, don't let him get away with growling and nipping...it could set the standard for his future behavior. Rotts are quite dominant and need to know you aren't going to put up with aggression, even when they're little!

Hope this is of some use....

[Judi W]

Well, assuming it is a safe buckle collar, I'd simply put it on and leave it on. He can't stay in a snit forever. Then when you are ready, put the leash on and immediately go someplace interesting, like the front porch, and simply sit down together. Keep ahold of the leash. After a while go out front a bit and let him sniff around, give him a cookie and then go back in and remove the leash. It won't take long for him to realize that putting the leash on means he gets to go someplace interesting. If he is as smart as it looks, he'll catch on in a hurry - expecially if the leash has such a neat meaning. Once you get that settled, you can move on to walking and get started on further training.

[judy v]

Here's a variation of judi w's response: try attaching the lead and allowing him to drag it around for awhile (of course do this when you are home and are able to supervise). When he seems adjusted to that idea, pick up the end of the leash and follow him around. When he's comfortable with that concept, while holding the leash, try luring him with something delicious. And, of course, while all of this is going on, the happy voice and praise should be raining down on him. Oh, yes, and don't forget the cheerleader smile. They're face readers, you know.

[luvarott]

Originally posted by LEAPY:
[b] and doesn't hide from us anymore...

I find that a kinda scary part in your post. I've never had a normal Rottie pup of this age try to hide from us......I think you may need a lot more help than just advise on getting the puppy used to a collar and leash. I think you need to get yourself into a trainer's good hands.....

[Paxx]

I am moving this to Training.