Charlie Clarricotes is an educational director for the Cambridge Institute of Dog Behaviour & Training. He has worked closely with dogs for the past twenty years and currently sees nearly 4,000 dogs and their owners each year at his training centre near Cambridge. In addition to writing books and appearing on television, Charlie also has the time to be our resident dog behaviour and training expert.

When first introducing the lead, it’s best to simply clip it onto the dog’s collar and let him drag it around. This allows your dog to get used to its weight and the sensation of it around his neck.

Top tips:

• Use a treat to entice your dog while clipping on the lead.
• After clipping on your dog onto the lead walk away from them and allow them to drag it.
• Once your dog has become accustomed to the lead, pick up the lead and walk a few paces, and reward the dog for following you.

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