Pulling on the lead is a common problem because most dogs are not trained adequately or properly from a young age.  Many dogs are labelled "disobedient" but in truth, they are just confused with what is required of them.

The more you allow your dog to pull you up the street or to the nearest bush, the more your dog will assume that this is ok.  In order to get your dog to walk nicely on the lead, you must first teach your dog the heel position ….

                ….. use a treat on your dog's nose to show them where you want them to be at your side and take one step with your dog beside you.  Repeat this many, many times until your dog is fluent with the movement.  Be patient and persevere.  Until your dog can walk happily next to you for one pace, it will not be possible to get them to walk in a controlled manner on lead for longer distances.

This exercise takes many repetitions to get right, for both dog and owner!  If your dog makes a mistake, it's your job to show them how to get it right and allow them to be successful.  Your dog will learn more quickly if you turn this learning into a game!

Adding more steps onto your first one  -   relax your upper body and hold your lead loose, in the hand on the opposite side to your dog, ie. if your dog is on your left, your lead and a few treats will be in your right hand.  Using the hand on the same side as the dog, motivate and show them where you would like them to be when walking beside you, and set off for a couple of paces initially.  Ensure that you reward your dog for every effort made ....  pass a treat from the hand holding them to the hand next to the dog, and then reward your dog.  Build the exercise up gradually and repeat many times.  If your dog makes a mistake, show them again what you would like them to do.  Be patient and consistent, and persevere.

If your dog pulls on the lead or gets distracted, jog backwards and talk to them all the time to regain their attention.  Say "heel" as you use your dog-side hand to show them where they should be.  Once they are back in the heel position, continue forwards again.  Remember to make this exercise fun by including lots of play.

Lead Walking Tips

If your dog surges ahead whilst walking, run backwards to get their attention and show them back into the heel position before you continue forwards again.

If you follow your dog when they're pulling, you are basically giving them permission to pull you!

By tugging or jerking on the lead to get your dog back into heel position, particularly if you say "heel" at the same time, only instructs your dog to keep the lead tight!  In effect, you are teaching your dog to pull on the lead.

Go to training classes to teach your dog how to walk nicely with you with the distractions of other dogs nearby.

TEACH WITH KINDNESS AND PATIENCE  -  YOU WILL BE REWARDED MANY TIMES OVER

Heather Stevens  MCFBA,   Behaviour Specialist and Master Trainer