🐾 Teaching Your Dog to Walk on a Leash Without Pulling
Leash walking is an essential skill, but it is often a delicate one. The goal is not to force the dog to follow, but to create a smooth, relaxed, and respectful walk.
🎯 Why Does a Dog Pull?
- Excitement or curiosity
- Stress or fear
- Bad habits (pulling = moving forward)
- Inappropriate equipment
🪄 The Basics
- Choose a comfortable harness and a flexible leash.
- Start in a calm, low-distraction environment.
- Keep sessions short and positive.
🐕 Training Steps
Step 1: If your dog pulls, stop walking. Wait until the leash slackens, then move forward and praise.
Step 2: Practice the “heel” position using treats and patience.
Step 3: Gradually introduce distractions and new environments.
⚠️ What to Avoid
- Pulling back on the leash (counterproductive)
- Shouting or getting angry
- Using coercive collars
- Progressing too quickly
💚 Helpful Tips
- Alternate structured walking with freedom on a long line
- Change direction to regain your dog’s attention
- Include sniffing breaks
💬 Conclusion
Loose-leash walking is built on patience, consistency, and trust. Your dog learns to walk with you not through force, but through the pleasure of sharing the moment.