Dogs pull on leashes for a few reasons. Most dogs have a natural walking pace which may be faster or slower than our comfortable pace. Dogs would rather go back and forth to explore than just walk at one pace at our side down the sidewalk.
#1 Don’t Go With Your Dog
One big reason dogs pull is that we reward dogs for pulling.
If your dog is pulling, and you go with him, then he is getting a reward. He might be getting closer to something he wants or more distant from something unpleasant. Many people will go with a dog without even being aware of the choice.
Be aware of tension on the leash. If your dog pulls, then you can stop or turn and go the other way. Do not go with your dog when he is pulling. Note that if your dog is afraid, please get in touch with a professional. We do not want to pull dogs towards something they are scared of.
#2 Have a Loose Leash
Even slight tension on the leash can be problematic. It can add physical stress to your body over weeks, months, and years of walking your dog. Dogs pulling may create physical problems for themselves and may more easily set off unruly dogs you pass.
Avoid tension, even slight tension, on the leash. The clip should be hanging down towards the ground, not pulled to you at an angle.
If we accept slight tension, we may get more accustomed to pressure and allow more and more over time. It is very hard for us to accurately measure how much tension is acceptable.
Keep your leash slack, and your dog will more easily learn your requirements.
#3 Location, Location, Location
A common error is to start with an environment that is too distracting. We want to find a starting point where your dog can be successful. If your goal is to walk at a farmer’s market, then we might start at a quiet park. Review your walking training activities in the park. Gradually move closer to areas where people are walking. Continue to reward your dog for correct responses and move away if your dog is excited.
If we start in an environment that is too challenging, it will be harder to work on skills without distractions which can be frustrating for everyone. If your dog is doing well, he is ready for a little more distraction. If your dog is having trouble, then your dog may need more distance.
#4 Navigate a Path
Think about crafting a path that will give your dog success. Be aware of your environment and look for things that may be exciting, scary, interesting, or hazardous.
For example, you might notice new holiday decorations in your neighbor’s yard. These have faces and could scare your dog. Instead of passing by to “see what happens,” you might cross the street and let your dog notice from a distance rather than up close. You might see a person coming with an unruly puppy. Instead of trying to pass, you might go down a sidestreet or change direction so your dog is not overwhelmed. Maybe you see a low decorative wall and move to it, encouraging your dog to walk along it for fun.
We want to expose dogs to distractions deliberately - but at levels they can handle. Going too close to a distraction may result in barking or pulling. That’s not the level of exposure that creates better experiences in the future. As your dog gets more experience, you will find that he can handle more distractions at closer distances.
#5 Don't Think of Walks as Their Only Exercise
Playing tug, playing fetch, trick training, or other active games can be great ways to tire your dog before a walk. While we may think of a walk as exercise, many healthy adult dogs will find our pace too slow to be comfortable.
Your dog will likely find it easier to move with you when he’s not quite as eager, and you will have an easier time with training activities. Some dogs might need just a few minutes of play before a walk, and others may need a very long play session before heading out. This isn’t a habit you will have to keep forever - but it can make the early stages much more manageable.
If you need walking help, you can check out our walking series or schedule a training session with us. We love this skill!
