How to Get a Puppy Used to a Collar and Lead

To get a puppy used to a collar and lead, introduce each one gradually in short, calm sessions at home, pairing it with treats and praise so your puppy links it with good things. Start with the collar on for a few minutes at a time, then attach a light lead indoors before you ever head outside. Go at your puppy's pace, keep sessions short and happy, and check the collar fit every week as they grow.

Here is a gentle, step-by-step approach based on positive reinforcement, plus how to tell when it is time to size up.

Before you start

• Choose a lightweight, soft collar that is adjustable, so it can grow with your puppy for a while. Our guide on how to measure your dog shows you how to find the right size.
• Pick a light lead with a clasp that is not too heavy for a small neck.
• Have small, soft treats ready. A treat pouch, such as our Holland Park Treat Pouch, keeps rewards to hand so you can mark good moments instantly.
• Choose a quiet time when your puppy is relaxed, not overtired or overexcited.

A note on ID: in the UK, a dog in a public place must wear a collar showing the owner's name and address, and in England puppies must be microchipped and registered by the time they are eight weeks old. Getting your puppy comfortable with a collar early means they are ready for both. Read more in our guide to UK dog tag law.

Part 1: Getting used to the collar

Step 1: Let them investigate

Put the collar on the floor and let your puppy sniff it. Reward calm curiosity with a treat and a few kind words. There is no rush.

Step 2: First fitting

Gently fasten the collar while your puppy is busy with a treat or a toy. Check the two-finger rule: you should be able to slide two fingers flat between the collar and the neck. Praise, offer a treat, then play or carry on as normal.

Step 3: Short sessions, building up

Leave the collar on for a few minutes at first, while you are supervising, then remove it before your puppy gets fed up. Over the following days, gradually increase the time. Pair collar time with good things: meals, play and cuddles.

Step 4: Expect a little scratching

Many puppies scratch at a new collar at first. Try distracting them with a game or a treat rather than taking the collar off while they are scratching, so they learn that calm behaviour, not fuss, is what gets results. If your puppy seems genuinely distressed, slow down and go back a step.

Part 2: Introducing the lead

Step 5: Lead on, indoors

Once the collar is no bother, clip on a light lead indoors and let your puppy wander with it trailing behind, under close supervision so it does not snag on furniture. Reward them for walking about calmly.

Step 6: Pick up the lead

Hold the lead loosely and follow your puppy around for a minute or two. Then try calling them to you with a cheerful voice, rewarding them each time they come. Keep the lead slack: the goal is for your puppy to choose to stay close.

Step 7: A few steps together

Walk a few steps, stop, and reward your puppy when they are by your side. If they pull, simply stop and wait until the lead loosens, then reward and move on. Keep sessions to a few minutes and finish on a success.

Step 8: Garden, then the great outdoors

Practise in the garden or another quiet, enclosed space before moving to the pavement. When your vet confirms your puppy is ready to go out in public, start with short, quiet routes away from busy traffic and gradually build up. Lots of new sights and sounds can be tiring, so short outings are plenty at first.

Tips for success

• Keep it positive. Never use the lead to drag or jerk your puppy. You want the lead to signal good things, like walks and treats.
• Little and often. Several two to five minute sessions a day tend to work better than one long one.
• Be consistent. Use the same cues and reward the same behaviours, so your puppy learns quickly what you want.
• Stay calm. Puppies pick up on your mood. If a session is not going well, stop, play, and try again later.
• Take the collar off for unsupervised crate time if there is any risk of it catching on something, and put it back on before walks.

When to size up

Puppies grow quickly, and a collar that fits perfectly this week may be snug next week. Check the fit weekly:

• If you can no longer fit two fingers flat under the collar, loosen it.
• If the collar is already on its loosest setting and still feels snug, it is time for the next size.
• Look for any rubbing or flattened fur around the neck, which can be a sign the collar is too tight.
• Check the lead clasp and collar fastening for wear as your puppy chews and tugs.

Many owners use a simple, adjustable collar while their puppy is growing quickly, then choose a personalised or engraved collar once their dog's neck size has settled. When you are ready for something to grow into, a lead such as The Signature Lead, available in 120cm or 170cm, can carry you from puppy days into adulthood.

If you have any concerns about your puppy's health, comfort or behaviour, speak to your vet.

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take a puppy to get used to a collar?

It varies from puppy to puppy. Some barely notice a collar within a day or two, while others need more time. Short, positive sessions that build up gradually usually help.

Why does my puppy keep scratching at their collar?

Scratching is common while a puppy gets used to the new sensation. Distract them with play or a treat, and check the fit using the two-finger rule. If it continues or the skin looks irritated, ask your vet.

How often should I check my puppy's collar size?

Check the fit weekly while your puppy is growing. If you cannot slide two fingers flat under the collar, loosen it or move up a size.

Should I start with a collar or a harness?

Many owners introduce both. A collar is needed to carry ID, and the same gentle, step-by-step approach works for getting a puppy comfortable with a harness too.