Does your dog pull like crazy on the lead? You’re not alone. Many dog owners struggle with this, but the good news is – it’s fixable! In this guide, I’ll walk you through why dogs pull on the lead and, more importantly, how to stop it using simple, effective techniques.
Before we jump into solutions, let’s understand why pulling happens. Dogs naturally move faster than humans, and when they see something exciting, they want to get to it – fast! The issue is that if pulling gets them where they want to go, they’ll keep doing it.
Every time your dog pulls, stop walking. The moment they release tension on the lead, reward them and continue. This teaches them that pulling doesn’t get them what they want.
Keep treats handy and reward your dog for walking nicely beside you. Mark the correct behaviour with a “yes!” or a clicker and give them a treat. The more you reinforce this, the more they’ll choose to stay close to you.
If your dog pulls ahead, change direction. This makes them pay attention to you rather than dragging you forward. Do this consistently, and they’ll realise that staying close is easier than pulling. This method is also great for building engagement and improving listening skills.
Using the right tools can make a massive difference:
✅ Slip Lead (Fitted Correctly, Just Behind Their Ears) – Provides clear, effective communication when used properly.
✅ 6ft Training Lead – Gives your dog freedom without encouraging tension.
❌ Back Clip Harnesses – These encourage pulling and reduce control.
❌ Retractable Leads – These encourage pulling and remove control.
Loose lead walking takes consistency, but if you stay patient and reward good behaviour, your dog will improve.
Need extra help? Book a 1-to-1 training session today!
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