How to stop your dog pulling on the lead

A quick internet search will show you equipment that promises to ‘cure’ pulling, but some equipment causes pain or discomfort when the dog pulls by putting tension in a sensitive area. This is unnecessary and can be unpleasant and confusing for them.  

Walk your dog using whatever piece of equipment is most comfortable for them, such as a flat harness or collar.  If you choose a harness, make sure you introduce it to them in a gentle and positive way.

You need to teach your dog that being near you pays off. 

Starting in your home or garden where it’s calmer, reward your dog for sitting or standing by your side. It’s much easier for your dog to learn new behaviours in quiet places where they won’t be easily distracted.

At first, practice without the lead attached. Then you can start to introduce it once your dog is reliably following you.  

You may need to hold something your dog wants, like a tasty treat or fun toy, to get them to stand and walk by your side to start with.

You’ll need to do this less over time but remember to always praise them when they stick close to you.  

As you move forward, reward your dog whenever they are by your side. When they begin to get the hang of it, slowly increase the time and distance between rewards.  

Changing direction every so often will teach your dog to keep a close eye on you.

Gradually build in more distractions but remember to always go at your dog’s pace. If they are struggling, go back to a stage where they were successful and take things slower.  

You’ll probably need to use lots of treats at the start, but as your dog improves you can cut down – eventually just giving them a treat or some praise every so often.  

Be consistent with your training each time you go out with your dog.  

This may take time but will be well worth the effort in the end.  

You should expect walks to take longer while your dog is learning. But if you stick with it, your reward will be enjoyable walkies with a calm, happy dog who no longer pulls.