Leash Training Guide

Loose-leash walking is one of the most valuable skills you can teach.

Why Loose-Leash Matters

Prevents choking
Reduces pulling injuries
Makes walks enjoyable
Keeps dog safe
Builds communication

Equipment

Collars (Be Careful)

Flat buckle collars (no pulling reduction)
Martingale (prevents escape)
Avoid: Prong collars, choke chains, shock collars

Harnesses

Front-clip harnesses (reduce pulling)
Easy-pull harnesses
No-pull harnesses

Leashes

Standard 6-foot leash
Long lines for training (15-30 feet)
Retractable leashes not recommended

The Core Technique

Stop and Wait

Dog pulls forward
Stop immediately
Wait for slack
Resume walking
Reward at your side

Be Predictable

Same side every time
Same cues
Same expectations

Step-by-Step Training

Indoor First - No distractions
Reward Heavy - Treats every few steps
Change Directions - Keep attention on you
Ignore Pulling - Stop, wait, resume
Gradual Distractions - Add complexity slowly

Common Problems

Dog Pulls to Get Somewhere

Solution: Random rewards, never arrive when pulling

Lunging at Other Dogs/People

Solution: More distance, counter-conditioning

Won’t Walk Forward

Solution: Higher value rewards, ensure outside is interesting

Tries to Reach Everything

Solution: Decrease environment complexity, work in quieter areas

Consistency is Everything

Every walk is training
All family members must use same technique
Never allow pulling to succeed
Redirect to you, don’t just stop

When to Get Help

Aggression on leash
Fear-based reactions
No progress after 4+ weeks
Physical inability (pain)