Leash pulling can turn a peaceful stroll into a frustrating tug-of-war, exasperating many dog owners. But did you know that leash pulling isn’t about dominance or stubbornness?
This behavior, reinforced over time, becomes a tough habit to break. The good news? With expert guidance, like the three-step method from Lisa Burton of Listen Dog Training, you can teach your dog to walk calmly by your side.
Step 1: Establish Leadership before the Walk
One key reason dogs pull on the leash is their instinct to take charge. Burton emphasizes that leash training begins long before stepping outside. Dogs must recognize their owner as the leader in all aspects of life, not just during walks.
This means setting clear boundaries at home and maintaining a calm, assertive demeanor.
- Start with structure: Make your dog sit and wait calmly before attaching the leash or opening the door. This reinforces that you control when and how the walk begins.
- Avoid excitement triggers: If your dog gets overly excited at the sight of the leash, pause and wait for them to settle down before proceeding. This helps set a tone of focus rather than chaos.
By establishing leadership early, you tell your dog they can relax and follow your lead instead of taking charge.
Step 2: Use Positive Reinforcement & Stop-and-Go Training
Once outside, teaching your dog that pulling won’t get them where they want to go is crucial. Burton recommends combining positive reinforcement with stop-and-go training to reinforce good behavior.
- Reward calm walking: Whenever your dog walks beside you without pulling, immediately reward them with treats or praise. This positive association encourages them to repeat the behavior.
- Stop when they pull: If your dog starts pulling, stop walking entirely. Stand still until your dog returns its focus to you or the leash slackens. Once it does, resume walking. Over time, your dog will learn that pulling only delays progress.
This method requires patience but is highly effective in teaching dogs that loose-leash walking leads to rewards while pulling leads nowhere.
Step 3: Choose the Right Tools for Success
The tools you use during walks can make or break your training efforts. Burton advises against retractable leashes or choke collars, as these can encourage pulling or cause harm. Instead, opt for humane options like front-clip harnesses or head halters.
- Front-clip harnesses: These devices gently redirect your dog toward you when it pulls, making it easier to guide it without causing discomfort.
- Treat pouches: Keep treats handy in a pouch or pocket to reward good behavior immediately without fumbling around.
Using the right equipment enhances control and ensures a more comfortable experience for you and your pet.
Consistency Is Key: Practice Makes Perfect
Training a dog not to pull on the leash won’t happen overnight. Burton stresses the importance of consistency and patience throughout the process. Every walk is an opportunity to reinforce good habits, so stick with it even if progress feels slow at first.
- Short sessions: If your dog struggles with long walks, break training into shorter sessions in low-distraction environments.
- Gradual challenges: Once your dog masters loose-leash walking in quiet areas, gradually introduce more distractions, such as parks or busy streets.
With time and dedication, these three steps can help even the most determined pullers become calm walking companions. Leash training doesn’t have to be a battle of wills.
By following Lisa Burton’s expert advice—establishing leadership, using positive reinforcement, and equipping yourself with the right tools—you can turn frustrating walks into peaceful strolls. Consistency and patience are your best allies in this journey toward better behavior.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.