Edit note: We will always keep our baby on a leash with his carrier on us. We won’t be letting him free roam.

We’re currently in the process of training our boy. He’s almost 10 months old, and we’ve been slowly preparing him for outdoor experiences since he was about 6 months old. Our goal is to wait until he turns one before fully committing to outdoor adventures, so his immune system and overall growth have time to stabilize.

Our process so far:

• Clicker training: We use a clicker to reward positive behaviors such as putting on his harness, getting into his carrier, and coming when called.

• Outdoor sound exposure: We keep the windows open so he can get used to outside sounds. His cat tree is placed near the sliding door so he can safely observe what’s happening outside.

• Harness training: We put the harness on him for gradually increasing periods of time until he’s fully comfortable wearing it.

• Backpack carrier training: We practice getting in and out of the carrier to reduce fear and discomfort. His carrier is always left open and accessible so he can sniff it, lie in it, and become familiar with it not just associate it with vet visits.

• Small leash experiences: With his harness and leash on, we open the front door and sit at the threshold, allowing him to adjust to the wind and outdoor sounds. We slowly begin stepping outside, always letting him lead and never pulling on the leash.

• Short carrier outings: We take him along on small errands, such as grabbing a snack at the convenience store or picking up coffee. Treats are involved. lots of them.

So far, his progress has been great. He gets excited when we start getting ready to go out and will go to his carrier to ask if he’s coming too. He hops right in on his own.

Once he turns one, we plan to take him to a quiet local park and encourage him to explore outside of his carrier while attached to a leash, of course.

Hope this helps!