walking on leash

[memenzel]

Sara (11wks) is doing great on a leash. She pretty much stays with us, (we encourage w/ treats, and if she pulls we go the opposite direction,etc.)

My question is, I like her to be able to explore, but she can't be off a leash where we are, so sometimes I let her just sniff around and I follow her, keeping the leash loose. She loves to play in the grass, chase bugs etc. Is this ok, or will it confuse her?
Thanks! I'm a new "mom" and tend to worry!

[luvarott]

No, this is wonderful and exactly what you want. You want puppy to explore the big wide world, as long as she is not pulling. Give her time to "smell the roses" but teach her a word that means she has to get going again. I tell my guys "Let's Go" when I have had enough standing around. This is a hugely different command from their competition "Heel" command.
This is an ideal age to reward attention to you (believe me, when they hit adolescence this puppy attentiveness is gonna vanish<VBG>). When puppy looks up to you for direction meet her with a big smile and a cookie....