Training Tips and Tricks: Do Your Daily Walks Turn Into a Game of Tug on the Leash?

Loose leash walking, or politely walking on a leash without pulling, can be one of the hardest and most frustrating things to teach your pup.

Here are few tips and tricks to help out:

Make sure your pup is used to the leash, collar, or any other tools you use for your walk. Have your pup wear them around the house and give treats to make sure they’re making positive associations with them. 

Practice inside first. There are tons of distractions and amazing smells outside, so be sure to teach your pup what you’re looking for when they are at their most focused, which is generally inside with fewer distractions.

Give them lots of praise, treats, and affection when they stay close to you while walking inside.  

Once your dog is successfully staying close on walks at home, practice in your building’s hallway or lobby, then eventually outside.

The key to Loose Leash Walking is setting them up for success and teaching them what you DO want from them, not just what you don’t want (pulling).

Remember that walking is a “Life Reward.” Your pup is pulling because they want to move forward, so every time you allow them to do so by walking forward with tension on the leash, you are rewarding their pulling!

Work with a Trainer! A professional Trainer can give you options on what works best for your pup, whether it is pulling, dragging, or barking and lunging during walks.