Leash pulling: why it works for your dog, and how to stop paying for it
4 min read
Pulling isn't dominance and it isn't stubbornness. It's a habit that has been rewarded thousands of times: pull, and the walk moves toward the good smell. Change what pays, and pulling fades.
Two rules
- A tight leash means the walk stops.
- The spot next to your leg is the best-paid place on the walk.
Red light, green light
- Start indoors or in the yard, where it's easy to win.
- Walk forward. The moment the leash goes tight, stop and stand still.
- When your dog eases back and the leash goes slack, say "yes", treat right at your leg, and walk on.
- Reward every few steps while your dog is next to you. Thin the rewards out as it gets easier.
Use sniffing as pay
Walk a few loose steps, then say "go sniff" and let your dog sniff for a few seconds. Then "let's go" and repeat. Sniffing is what your dog wants most, so make it the reward for a loose leash.
Gear
A comfortable front-clip harness makes pulling less effective and is easier on your dog's neck. Keep using it while you train. Skip prong and choke collars: they hurt, and they don't teach your dog what to do instead.
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