10 Tips to Stop Your Dog from Pulling on the Leash
Walking a dog that pulls on the leash can feel like you're being dragged through the neighborhood instead of enjoying a peaceful stroll. Trust me, we’ve been there. But the good news? With a little patience and consistency, you can absolutely teach your dog to walk calmly by your side. Here’s what’s actually worked for us and other pet parents we know.
Start with the right gear
A no-pull harness can be a game changer. The kind with a front clip helps redirect your dog back toward you when they start to pull, rather than letting them charge forward. It doesn’t solve everything on its own, but it makes the training process a lot easier and safer—especially if your dog is strong or reactive.
Reward what you want to see
Dogs pull because it gets them where they want to go faster. But if you flip that around and reward them for staying close, they’ll start to realize that walking nicely pays off more. Keep treats handy and praise them when they stay by your side. You don’t need to overdo it—just a quick “good job” and a small treat goes a long way.
Be consistent with cues and rewards
Pick one word—like “heel” or “with me”—and stick with it. Always reward the same behavior. If you’re sometimes using treats, sometimes praise, and sometimes ignoring them, your dog won’t know what to expect. Consistency helps them learn faster.
Stop when they pull
One of the simplest techniques is just stopping dead in your tracks when your dog pulls. Don’t yank the leash—just stand still and wait. The moment they ease up, praise and move on. It teaches them that pulling doesn’t work, but walking calmly does.
Use the U-turn trick
If your dog’s getting too excited or stubborn, try a quick 180-degree turn and walk in the opposite direction. It interrupts the pulling and makes them refocus on you. Just remember to stay calm and gentle—no sudden jerks on the leash.
Train in low-distraction areas first
Trying to teach leash manners in a busy park is like trying to study in the middle of a concert. Start in your backyard or a quiet street. Once your dog is doing well there, gradually add more distractions. It’s all about setting them up for success.
Shorten the leash (but not too much)
A shorter leash gives you more control and keeps your dog from wandering too far ahead. But don’t make it so tight that they feel constantly restricted. You want enough slack that they can walk beside you comfortably.
Practice loose-leash walking
The goal is to have a relaxed leash—not taut like a tug-of-war rope. Whenever the leash is loose, that’s your cue to reward. Over time, your dog will learn that a loose leash means good things happen.
Know when to get help
If you’re stuck or feeling overwhelmed, there’s no shame in calling in a professional dog trainer. A good trainer can spot what’s going wrong and help you tailor your approach. They’ve seen it all and can give you a fresh perspective—and a plan that actually works.
Stay patient and celebrate small wins
Leash training doesn’t happen overnight. Some days will feel like two steps forward, one step back. That’s normal. Celebrate the small victories, like one block without pulling, and don’t get discouraged. Your dog is learning—and so are you.
Walking your dog should be something you both enjoy. With the right tools, clear communication, and a little patience, you’ll get there. And when you finally take that calm, happy walk together? Totally worth it.