Leash Training for Beginners: Pulling to Polite Walking

6 Paws Training Camp
Jul 4
2 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

Dog on a leash walks through a sunlit, leaf-covered forest path. Shadows of trees cast long across the ground, creating a serene atmosphere.

Walking your dog should be fun, not a game of tug-of-war. Whether your dog pulls like a sled dog or zigzags like a squirrel-chasing madman, leash training is critical for safety and sanity. This tutorial will bring you through beginner-friendly techniques for improving your everyday walks. Follow these easy steps to prevent your dog from tugging!

1. Determine the cause of pulling.

Potential causes may include, but are not limited to:

Natural eagerness and interest
Lack of impulse control
Reinforced habit (if pulling leads to forward movement)

Tip: Understanding the "why" helps you train with empathy rather than frustration.

2. Add a leash training aid.

Front-clip harnesses softly inhibit pulling
Head collars like Gentle Leader or Halti
Shorter leash length: 4-6 feet while in training (No retractable leashes)

Reminder: These tools are training aids, not replacements

3. Teaching Loose-Leash Walking with Positive Reinforcement Training

Begin in an area with very few distractions, such as your home or backyard
Each time your dog allows slack in the leash, mark and reward them
Continue this process, while encouraging your dog to remain close to you while walking
To create positive associations with walking politely, reward often initially.

Tip: It is advised to keep sessions brief no more than 5–10 minutes.

4. Ways to Discourage Leash Pulling

Pretend your a "tree" and stop moving so you don't accidentally reward pulling
Abruptly alter your course in the opposite direction while encouraging your dog to follow close to you.
Initiate the unpredictable zigzag walk

Reminder: Yelling at your dog or tugging the leash may make the dog fearful, confused, or anxious.

Person hiking with a dog in a forest. The person wears a blue backpack, the dog a small orange one. Sunny day, trees in the background.

5. Remember that consistency is essential.

One of the most beneficial things you can teach your dog is leash manners, which also improves your quality of life together. With a little practice, consistency, and patience you and your dog can go from tug-o-war style walking to having a nice, relaxed walk together. Be sure everyone who walks the dog adheres to the same rules. As you practice a little each day, you'll start to see progress. Celebrate the little wins and focus on getting better, not being perfect!