How to stop your dog pulling on the lead - 5 easy tips
It all begins with an idea.
Does Your Dog Pull on the Lead?
You’re not alone! Many dog owners struggle with teaching their dog to walk on a loose lead, making walks stressful rather than enjoyable. But don’t worry - there are some simple techniques to help your dog walk on a loose lead!
Why Do Dogs Pull On Lead?
Before we dive into solutions, it is important to understand why dogs pull. Here’s a few possible reasons:
Excitement: Walks are the highlight of their day and they walk quicker than we do - it can be hard for dogs to walk at our pace!
Lack Of Training:Dogs aren’t born knowing how to walk on a loose lead - it is a skill we need to teach them.
Reinforcement: If pulling gets them where they want to go, they keep doing it!
Tip 1 Use The Right Equipment
A collar can put strain on your dog’s neck and make pulling worse, so whilst training your dog to walk on a loose lead try:
A well fitting Y Shaped harness (eg, Perfect Fit, Ruffwear)
A double ended training lead (one clip on the front of the harness and one on the back)
This set up can give you more control whilst your dog learns to walk on a loose lead, without causing discomfort.
Tip 2 Reward Loose Lead Walking
Dogs repeat behaviours that get rewarded! The key is to reinforce calm walking with rewards like tasty treats, verbal praise and plenty of chances to sniff and explore.
How To Do It:
The moment your dog walks on a loose lead, walk forwards. If they check in with you, reward them!
If they start to pull, stop walking! Wait for them to creat slack in the lead by walking back towards you, then move forward again.
This helps them to understand the concept of loose lead walking.
Tip 3 Try Changing Direction
If your dog pulls, instead of walking ahead, change direction.
As soon as your dog pulls, say ‘this way!’ in an upbeat voice and turn around.
Reward them for walking with you
Tip 4 Shorter Training Walks
Instead of venturing out on long, frustrating walks, do short training sessions (5-10 mins) focussing on loose lead walking.
Start in quiet areas first with minimal distractions
Gradually increase to more distractions as your dog’s lead walking improves
Tip 5 Be Consistent and Patient
Loose lead walking is a valuable skill, but it doesn't happen overnight. Consistency is important so make sure everyone in the household is on the same page. Be patient - your dog is learning a new skill.
Need Professional Help?
If you are struggling with training your dog to walk nicely on lead, I offer 1-1 lead walking sessions in Norfolk. Together we can make your walks enjoyable! Book a Consultation Today or contact me for advice!
Blog Post Title Two
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Blog Post Title Three
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.
Blog Post Title Four
It all begins with an idea.
It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.
Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.