Loose-leash walking

Start with understanding

Pulling is not a contest for dominance

Dogs naturally move faster than people and are motivated by smells, movement, and places they want to reach. Walking at a person's pace on a leash is not natural—it is a skill we need to make clear and worthwhile. If pulling repeatedly gets a dog where they want to go, it is reinforced. The training plan changes that pattern without leash jerks, choke collars, or prong collars.

Reward what you want repeated

Notice attention and good leash choices

Bring small, appealing rewards and use a clicker or marker word if you like. Mark and reward whenever your dog voluntarily looks at you, turns toward you, or moves with slack in the leash. These moments may be brief at first, so generous reinforcement helps the dog discover that staying connected with you makes the walk continue.

This is a simple form of shaping: instead of physically placing the dog beside you, you reward closer and closer versions of the behaviour you want. Practise first in a quiet area, then gradually add more distracting places.

A simple rule

Slack leash moves; tight leash pauses

1. Begin in a quiet area where your dog can eat and think.
2. Mark and reward eye contact, check-ins, and several steps near you while the leash remains loose.
3. If the leash tightens, stop. Wait for slack or attention, praise, and continue.
4. Use a cheerful turn cue such as “this way” and reward your dog for following.
5. Practice in short sessions before adding harder environments.

Make the environment work for you

Sniffing can be part of the reward

Food is useful, but it is not the only reward. Forward movement, sniffing, praise, play, and access to interesting places can all reinforce good leash choices. Make the walk interactive instead of expecting your dog to ignore everything around them.

• Say “go sniff” before releasing your dog to investigate an appropriate area.
• After the sniff break, say “let's go” and reward your dog for moving with you again.
• Use a cheerful “this way” before changing direction so your dog has a chance to follow.
• Praise good walking throughout your dog's life, especially when they resist pulling toward something exciting.
• Bring a favourite toy when play helps your dog stay engaged with you.

Young or worried dogs

Reluctance may be fear, not stubbornness

A puppy who freezes or refuses to walk may be overwhelmed. Choose a quieter place, keep sessions brief, bring excellent rewards, and allow time to observe. Avoid dragging a worried dog. If fear persists or appears suddenly, speak with a qualified trainer and veterinarian.