Be the boss dog training - utah county dog training

WHAT SHOULD MY WALK WITH MY PUPPY LOOK LIKE?

Home
º
Blog

It’s one of the first questions I get asked about puppies…”What should I do on a walk when they pull on the leash?”

My answer actually depends on the age of the puppy.  Eight to ten weeks my answer is “you don’t do much”. They are babies. Just keep the leash on them and let them explore the world. Sniff, pee and poop is pretty much all that I expect of puppies 8-10 weeks on a walk.

Once they hit 10 to 15 weeks of age I carry treats with me on the walk. Give a gentle tug on the leash, and when they turn to look at you have the treat ready-“yes…good boy/girl” and lots of praise as they come to get the treat. I feed the treat to them next to my side while walking…this “shapes” the heel command.

There are lots of different methods and techniques to help create the “heel” command. However, training for puppies under 15 weeks of age should be very food and praise-oriented.

More Tips

Check out our other posts

Protective or Possessive? The Truth About Dogs That Guard Their Owners

July 14, 2026 No Comments

Is your dog truly protecting you, or are they acting out of fear and possessiveness?

Many owners mistake controlling behaviors for loyalty, but allowing your dog to make decisions about who can approach you can lead to stress, anxiety, and even aggression. In this guide, you’ll learn how to recognize the difference between protective and possessive behavior, why teaching trust is the key to a calm and confident dog, and the training techniques that create lasting results.

Whether you’re searching for expert dog training in Utah County or Salt Lake City, Utah, these practical tips will help you build a safer, happier relationship with your dog.

Read More »

Mental Fatigue vs. Physical Fatigue in Dogs: The Key to Better Behavior

July 14, 2026 No Comments

Have you ever taken your dog on a long walk only to come home and watch them race around the house with endless energy?

You’re not alone. Many dog owners focus on physical exercise to tire out their dogs, but mental stimulation is often the missing piece. In this article, you’ll learn the difference between mental and physical fatigue in dogs, why activities like training, sniffing, and problem-solving can be just as exhausting as a long walk, and how balancing both types of exercise can reduce unwanted behaviors like pulling on the leash, jumping, barking, and destructive chewing.

Whether you have a playful puppy or an energetic adult dog, these simple strategies will help you raise a calmer, happier, and more well-behaved companion.

Read More »

Is Your Dog Too Trained? Why Constant Commands Can Backfire

June 29, 2026 No Comments

Most dog owners think more training leads to better behavior—but that’s not always true.

If your dog only listens when you’re giving commands, they may be relying on you instead of learning self-control.

Discover how overtraining can create dependence, why constant correction often backfires, and how teaching your dog to make good decisions leads to calmer, more reliable behavior at home and in the real world.

Read More »

The Surprising Reason Your Dog Mirrors Your Emotions

June 25, 2026 No Comments

Ever wonder why your dog seems to get more excited, anxious, or reactive when you’re stressed?

Dogs are experts at reading human emotions, and your body language, tone of voice, and energy can directly influence their behavior.

Discover why calm humans create calm dogs and learn simple training habits that lead to less pulling, less barking, and a more confident, well-behaved companion.

Read More »
Load More