Pulling on the Lead

Pulling on the Lead: Why Dogs Do It and How to Stop It Using Positive Reinforcement

Walking your dog should be one of the most enjoyable parts of dog ownership. Unfortunately, for many owners, it turns into a daily struggle of being dragged down the street by a dog that seems determined to get everywhere faster. Lead pulling is one of the most common challenges dog owners face, but the good news is that it can be improved and often resolved using kind, effective, positive reinforcement methods.

Why Do Dogs Pull on the Lead?

Before addressing the behaviour, it helps to understand why it happens in the first place.

• Dogs naturally walk faster than humans and are curious about their environment.

• Pulling works. If a dog pulls and reaches a smell, another dog, or a destination, the behaviour is reinforced.

• Excitement and overstimulation can make it hard for dogs to focus.

• Lack of training. Loose-lead walking is not instinctive; it must be taught.

• Anxiety or frustration can also contribute, especially in busy environments.

  
  

Recognising that pulling is usually not stubbornness or disobedience helps shift our mindset toward teaching rather than correcting.

Why Avoid Punishment-Based Methods?

Using harsh equipment or punishment may suppress pulling temporarily, but it often comes with unwanted side effects such as fear, stress, or shutdown behaviour. Positive reinforcement focuses on teaching your dog what to do instead of punishing what you don’t want. This builds trust, improves learning, and creates calmer, more enjoyable walks.

Foundations for Loose-Lead Walking

Before heading out the door, make sure the basics are in place.

Choose the Right Equipment

• A well-fitted harness (front-clip harnesses can be helpful for some dogs).

• A standard-length lead (around 1.5–2 metres) rather than a retractable lead during training.

• High-value treats your dog loves.

  
  

Set Realistic Expectations

Loose-lead walking is a skill that takes time. Short, successful training sessions are far more effective than long, frustrating walks.

Positive Reinforcement Techniques to Stop Pulling

1. Reward the Position You Want

Decide where you want your dog to walk (usually beside or slightly ahead of you). The moment the lead is loose:

• Mark the behaviour with a word like “yes” or a clicker.

• Reward with a treat at your side.

  
  

Your dog learns that staying close makes good things happen.

2. Stop When the Lead Goes Tight

If your dog pulls:

• Stop walking immediately.

• Stay still and silent.

• The moment the lead loosens, mark and reward, then continue walking.

  
  

This teaches your dog that pulling gets them nowhere, but a loose lead makes the walk continue.

3. Change Direction

If stopping alone isn’t enough:

• Calmly turn and walk in the opposite direction when your dog pulls.

• Reward when your dog catches up and the lead loosens.

  
  

This encourages attention and prevents your dog from rehearsing pulling behaviour.

4. Use Frequent Reinforcement at First

In the early stages:

• Reward often, sometimes every few steps.

• Gradually increase the number of steps between treats as your dog improves.

  
  

Consistency matters more than speed.

5. Make Yourself More Interesting Than the Environment

Practice engagement by:

• Talking to your dog in a calm, happy voice.

• Rewarding eye contact.

• Playing short training games before walks to reduce excess energy.

  
  

A dog that is mentally engaged is less likely to pull.

Train in the Right Environment

Start where your dog can succeed:

• Begin indoors or in your garden.

• Move to quiet streets before busy areas.

• Increase distractions gradually.

  
  

Expect setbacks when environments become more exciting; this is normal, not failure.

Manage Pulling While Training

Training takes time, and dogs still need exercise. Consider:

• Using sniffy walks where pulling rules are relaxed on a longer lead.

• Separating training walks from exercise walks.

• Teaching a cue such as “go sniff” to give your dog appropriate outlets.

  
  

This prevents frustration for both you and your dog.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Expecting instant results.

• Only training when the dog is already overstimulated.

• Inconsistency between family members.

• Pulling back on the lead, which often triggers opposition reflex.

  
  

Final Thoughts

Loose-lead walking is not about control; it’s about communication. When dogs understand what earns rewards and freedom, they are far more likely to choose calm, cooperative behaviour. With patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, walks can become enjoyable again rather than stressful.