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Hello hello, Pet Parents! Carlos here. If you’ve ever felt like your dog is taking you for a walk instead of the other way around, you’re not alone. Pulling on the leash is one of the most common frustrations pet parents face. But don’t worry—with the right approach and training, you can transform your walks into a calm, enjoyable experience for both you and your pup. Let’s dive in!
1. Why Do Dogs Pull on the Leash?
Dogs aren’t born knowing how to walk politely on a leash. In fact, pulling often happens because:
Excitement: The sights, smells, and sounds of the world are thrilling for your pup.
Curiosity: Dogs are natural explorers, and pulling gets them closer to what they want.
Reinforcement: If pulling helps them reach their goal (a tree, another dog, or a fire hydrant), they’ll keep doing it.
Lack of Training: Many dogs simply haven’t been taught what we expect during walks.
A study published in Applied Animal Behaviour Science found that pulling is often self-rewarding for dogs, making it a challenging but solvable behavior. (Source: ScienceDirect)
2. Steps to Stop Leash Pulling
1. Use the Right Gear
Start with a front-clip harness or head halter. These tools help redirect pulling without causing pain or discomfort, unlike prong or choke collars, which can harm your dog and damage your bond.
2. Teach “Loose Leash Walking”
Step 1: Hold the leash in one hand and treats in the other.
Step 2: Encourage your dog to stay beside you by rewarding them for walking with a slack leash.
Step 3: Stop moving if they pull. Only continue when the leash is loose.
3. Reward Attention on You
Practice “watch me” exercises by rewarding your dog for making eye contact during walks. This keeps their focus on you instead of distractions.
4. Practice Short, Structured Walks
Instead of long, frustrating walks, practice in short bursts. Focus on teaching good leash manners in low-distraction environments before progressing to busier areas.
5. Use Positive Reinforcement
Reward your dog frequently for walking nicely by your side. High-value treats (like cheese or chicken) can help keep their attention on you.
3. Common Challenges (and How to Overcome Them)
“My Dog Pulls Toward Other Dogs or People.”
Solution: Practice redirection by teaching your dog to “sit” or “focus” when they see another dog or person. Reward them for calm behavior.
“My Dog Ignores Me When We’re Outside.”
Solution: Start training in a quiet area and gradually increase distractions. Use highly motivating rewards to keep their attention.
“Stopping Every Time They Pull Makes Walks Take Forever.”
Solution: Consistency is key. While it might feel slow at first, stopping every time they pull teaches your dog that pulling doesn’t get them what they want.
4. Building a Positive Walking Experience
Incorporate Sniff Breaks
Dogs explore the world through their nose. Build sniff breaks into your walks as a reward for loose leash walking.
Practice Engagement Games
Play simple games, like “find it” (tossing treats for your dog to sniff out) or “follow me” (encouraging your dog to follow you for rewards), to keep walks fun and interactive.
Stay Patient and Consistent
Leash training takes time, especially if pulling has become a habit. Celebrate small wins and remember that progress, not perfection, is the goal.
Final Thoughts
Pet parents, leash pulling can be frustrating, but it’s a behavior that can be improved with patience, consistency, and the right training tools. By teaching your pup that walking politely leads to rewards, you’re not just improving your walks—you’re strengthening your bond.
Need help with leash training or other walking challenges? Reach out—I’m here to support you and your pup on your journey to stress-free strolls!
Carlos F. Morales - CDBC | CPDT-KA
Carlos is head trainer at Canine High School in Long Beach CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He is responsible for creating the School's Dog Training System, Curriculum and Philosophy. In addition to educating his canine students and their human parents, he runs a teaching school that offers apprenticeship and internship programs for aspiring professional dog trainers. He is a Certified Mentor Trainer for several dog training schools and holds certifications with the IAABC and the CCPDT. He lives in Long Beach CA in a little house by the beach with his human, his three dogs GoGo, Kiba, Choji and a sassy cat, Habibti.
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