While most dogs need training themselves, one canine turned the tables when he took it upon himself to teach the family cat how to walk on a leash, stepping in as an unexpected “trainer” during the lesson.
Owner Kylee told Newsweek via Instagram that she had been leash-training her tabby cat, Camo, for several days before sharing a February 17 video under the account @tightlines.and.canines documenting the progress. Kylee’s goal was to eventually walk both Camo and her Belgian Malinois, Mako, together, as the cat had always shown an interest in going outside, but first needed to become comfortable with the leash.
Using a harness and leash allows indoor cats to safely explore the outdoors, while gaining mental stimulation and exercise, which an article from PetMD states can help combat the risks associated with a sedentary lifestyle, including obesity. The method also provides enrichment without the risks of free-roaming, making it an increasingly popular option for curious felines eager to experience the outside world.
But before long, Mako appeared to take matters into his own paws. In the clip, the dog gently holds the leash in his mouth as Camo slowly walks ahead of him outside the home. As Kylee films the interaction, Mako initially matches the cat’s cautious pace before trotting forward with Camo in tow, seemingly trying to speed the training process.
By the end of the clip, Camo could barely keep up, his tiny paws scrambling across the ground as Mako continued forward with the leash in his mouth, holding him up. And while it seemed like the kitty was not a fan, Kylee reassured viewers in the caption that he was “fine.”
“My dog absolutely loves Camo and I thought it was hilarious,” she said. “Camo follows Mako everywhere he goes, too.”
Leash training a cat often starts indoors with short, positive sessions, so seeing a dog “assist” by carrying the line offered a playful twist for viewers following along with the family’s early training efforts, and, as of Sunday, the clip had reached over 328,000 views on Instagram.
And as the leash training progresses, the two buddies will be able to stick by each other’s side beyond the confines of the house. However, it might take time. Kylee said on the training: “It’s making progress, slowly but surely.”
How to Teach a Cat to Walk on a Leash
Animal welfare organizations such as the Best Friends Animal Society recommend introducing a harness gradually, beginning indoors where the cat feels safe. Owners are encouraged to let the cat wear the harness for short periods at first, offering treats and praise to build positive associations before ever attaching a leash.
Once a cat appears comfortable moving freely in the harness, the leash can be clipped on and allowed to trail behind under supervision so the animal can adjust to the sensation. Short, low-stress outings in quiet outdoor spaces are typically suggested as the next step, allowing the cat to explore at their own pace rather than being guided like a dog.
Experts emphasize that patience is key. Not every cat will take to leash walking, but for those who do, the activity can provide valuable mental stimulation and safe outdoor enrichment while strengthening the bond between pet and owner.
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