Leash pulling is one of the most common problems that owners face on a daily basis with their dog. At Seek it’s one of the most common reasons for booking a training package and something most dogs struggle with if not properly trained when the dog is a puppy. Not only can leash pulling be very annoying but it can also be a safety concern as this can cause injuries for you or your dog.
Dogs aren’t born with an understanding of how to walk on a leash, so we must teach them! The longer your dog pulls on a leash, the more the dog acquires this behavior to the point where it becomes a habit and the only way they know how to walk. Dogs have an opposition reflex which means they naturally oppose leash tension. We have to teach them to move into the leash when it’s tight rather than do the opposite and pull harder.
Controlled Walk
When you start your walk, allow your dog to walk within a few feet of you even if it is behind or to the side. If your puppy pulls on the leash say “no” and stop walking. When your puppy stops pulling and there is no tension on the leash, say “good” and offer a reward, preferably food or a high value treat. If your puppy is struggling, try to walk backwards and encourage them to come with you. Once your puppy does this, say “good” and reward. We continue to do this for the majority of the walk until the loose leash walking becomes more frequent.
Try to practice this in a low distraction environment like inside or the backyard when you start as it will be easier for your puppy to focus and be successful. Once he does better you can begin to increase distractions and even try it on a normal walk. Dogs need repeated practice in multiple environments before it becomes a habit. If they struggle in a new environment try to be patient and find a spot in the environment where distractions are lower. The value of your rewards also plays a big role in this so the higher the value or the hungrier your dog is, the better.
Over time your dog should begin to understand that pulling on the leash is not so fun, and walking with a loose leash brings lots of rewards and none of that annoying pressure on the collar. This will also build the bond between you and your puppy and allow him to explore the world in a controlled and fun way. Soon walks will be an activity that is enjoyable for you both!