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6 effective tips to stop dogs from leash pulling

Steps you can take to stop the bad behavior of leash pulling

Debbie Clason
By

Taking your dog for a walk? Your pup might have different goals for the outing. Humans generally like to walk in an orderly fashion along a sidewalk or trail. Dogs like to follow their noses from smell to smell. Humans have a deliberate pace. Dogs vary their speed in fits and starts as they take in the scents around them before moving on to the next.

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Difficulty

Easy

Duration

30 minutes

What You Need

  • Harness

  • Collar

  • Leash

  • Treats

All this can lead to a love-hate relationship when it comes to taking walks together, especially if your dog is in the habit of dragging you down the sidewalk every time you head out the door. Does your dog pull on his leash? This is what you should do.

A black and white dog pulls a woman down a sidewalk

How to stop dogs from leash pulling

Dogs have a natural tendency to push in the opposite direction against pressure that’s being applied to certain parts of their body. For example, when they feel the tug of the leash on their neck, they tend to pull forward. When you push on their back and ask them to sit, they resist. That's why having the perfect setup for walks can make such a difference — to both of you.

Step 1: Use a chest-led harness.

A harness enables the leash to attach to a clip on your dog’s chest instead of to the collar around his neck and will help prevent pulling. Use it in combination with your dog’s traditional collar so that he is always wearing his identification when you’re outside.

Step 2: Don’t reinforce bad behavior.

Although it can be tempting, don’t yell at your dog or yank on the leash to punish him when he begins to pull. Instead, the next time he begins to pull, stand still for a few minutes. Don’t resume walking until he comes back toward you and puts some slack on the leash.

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Step 3: Be unpredictable.

Another effective tactic is to reverse direction whenever he begins to pull. Stop and say “let’s go” or “this way” as you begin walking in another direction. Praise your dog each time he obeys your request and joins you at your side.

Man walking dog in forest

Step 4: Incorporate smell stops on your route.

While good leash behavior is important, be sure to identify a few smelly places along the way where your dog is allowed to stop, sniff, and leave his calling card. Not only is this a great way to reward his good behavior, but processing all the smells he takes in is great mental stimulation, too.

Step 5: Reward good behavior.

As you work to leash-train your canine friend, use small treats to reward his progress. He’ll quickly learn that being on the leash is fun as well as delicious! Slowly reduce the number of treats you give him as he becomes better behaved on the leash, but never skimp on praise.

Step 6: Above all, be patient.

Starting, stopping, changing direction, and constantly monitoring your dog’s progress can be frustrating. Making sure you’re in the right mindset before you head out the door is as important as the equipment you use, the reward you give, and the consistency of your training.

Fortunately, with patience and consistency, you will enjoy your daily walks every bit as much as your dog does. Walking is an activity that provides positive mental, physical, and emotional benefits for both humans and canines. Happiness is a contagious state of mind that benefits us all.

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