Leash walking
Why does my puppy chew the leash instead of walking?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Leash chewing in puppies is usually a mix of teething discomfort, general exploration through the mouth, and sometimes simple frustration at the restriction a leash represents for the first time. It typically improves as teething passes, usually by around 6 months old, and as your puppy gets more used to leash walking overall.
Why puppies mouth the leash
Puppies explore almost everything with their mouths, and a dangling leash near their face is an obvious, easy target, especially during the teething period between roughly 3 and 6 months old when gums are sore and chewing feels soothing.
Redirecting the behavior
Carrying a small chew toy to offer the instant your puppy grabs the leash, rather than pulling the leash away which can turn it into a fun tug game, teaches an alternative outlet without accidentally rewarding the leash grabbing with an exciting reaction from you.
Choosing chew resistant gear in the meantime
A leash made of chain link near the clip end, or a thicker, less appealing material, holds up better to a persistent teether than a thin, soft leash. This is a temporary management step alongside training, not a permanent fix for the behavior itself.
Key takeaways
- Leash chewing is common during teething, roughly 3 to 6 months old, and usually improves with age.
- Offering a chew toy instead of pulling the leash away avoids accidentally turning it into a tug game.
- A sturdier leash material can hold up better to a persistent teether in the meantime.
- This behavior typically resolves on its own as teething passes and leash walking becomes routine.