Loose Leash Walking

Why Dogs Pull on Leash

Before diving into training techniques, it’s important to understand why dogs pull in the first place. Pulling is a natural behavior for dogs—it’s not about being stubborn or disobedient.

• Faster gait: Dogs naturally move faster than humans, making it difficult for them to match our pace.

• Curiosity and excitement: New smells, sights, and sounds are irresistible, and pulling gets them closer to what they want.

• Inconsistent reinforcement: If pulling occasionally gets them to their goal (a tree, another dog, or a person), they learn that it works, reinforcing the behavior.

• Fear, Stress, and Anxiety: When a dog is scared, anxious, or stressed, they often pull because their fight/flight response is active.
  By recognizing that pulling is instinctive, you can approach training with empathy and patience, rather than frustration.

Starting Leash Training: Building Foundations Without Distractions

The key to successful leash training is to begin in a low-distraction environment where your dog can focus. This helps them clearly understand what you’re asking before adding real-world challenges.

• Choose a quiet area: Start indoors, in your yard, or in a familiar, low-traffic location.

• Use high-value treats: Reinforce good behavior with something your dog loves (chicken, cheese, or freeze-dried liver).

• Mark and reward engagement: Each time your dog checks in or makes eye contact, mark it with a verbal cue (“yes!”) or clicker and reward them. This builds engagement.

• Reinforce loose leash moments: When the leash is slack, immediately praise and reward. This teaches your dog that a loose leash = good things.

• Short sessions, big wins: Keep early training sessions short and positive (5-10 minutes) to prevent frustration and help your dog succeed.

Positive Reinforcement Techniques for Loose Leash Walking

Once your dog understands the basics, gradually introduce leash-specific skills, rewarding them for staying close and maintaining a slack leash.

• The Stop-and-Go Method: When your dog pulls, stop walking immediately. The moment they release tension, mark and reward, then move forward again. This teaches them that pulling halts the fun.

• Catch Me If You Can: To keep your dog engaged, randomly change directions. When they follow you, praise and reward. This encourages focus and keeps them on their toes.

• Pattern Games: 1-2-3 Reward is a great way to build engagement on leash and develop a loose leash while walking.

• Use a hand target: Teach your dog to touch your hand with their nose on cue. This gives them a clear target to focus on and helps keep them by your side.

• Add gradual distractions: Once they succeed in calm areas, practice near mild distractions (e.g., walking near parked cars) before moving to busier locations.

• Celebrate small wins: Consistently reward small moments of loose leash walking, even if it only lasts a few steps at first. Over time, those moments will grow into longer, consistent stretches.

With patience, consistency, and plenty of positive reinforcement, your dog will learn that walking calmly by your side is rewarding—and way more fun than pulling!

What Not to Do When Leash Training

While positive reinforcement is the most effective and humane method for leash training, certain handling mistakes can set back your progress or even damage your dog’s trust. Here’s what to avoid:

• Don’t yank or jerk the leash: Sudden leash corrections can cause physical discomfort and create negative associations with walking. Instead, use gentle, consistent feedback through stopping or changing direction.

• Avoid retractable leashes for training: These leashes encourage pulling by giving inconsistent feedback on how far your dog can roam. Stick with a 4-6 ft standard leash for clearer communication.

• Don’t let your dog off leash in on-leash areas.

• Don’t ignore your dog. Stay present and work with them. Have fun together—it is teamwork!

• Skip punishment-based tools: Prong collars, choke chains, and shock collars may temporarily suppress pulling but can cause pain, fear, and reactivity. Positive reinforcement builds trust and lasting results.

• Don’t expect perfection right away: Leash training takes time and patience. Rushing the process or getting frustrated can confuse your dog. Celebrate small wins and stay consistent.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you’ll create a positive, trust-filled experience that makes loose leash walking an enjoyable activity for both you and your pup.