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How to stop a dog pulling on the lead
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Secrets to Dog Training
A long-running guide to everyday problems like pulling, according to the vendor.
Why dogs pull
Dogs walk faster than us, the world smells exciting, and every time pulling gets them closer to a smell or another dog, the habit is rewarded. The fix is to make walking beside you more rewarding than pulling.
The method
- Choose a reward zone: beside your left or right leg.
- Reward position: every few steps your dog is in the zone, deliver a small treat at your leg.
- Be a tree: when the lead tightens, stop. Move again when it slackens.
- Change direction if your dog keeps forging ahead, then reward when they catch up.
- Build distractions slowly: hallway, garden, quiet street, then busier routes.
Secrets to Dog Training
A long-running guide to everyday problems like pulling, according to the vendor.
A two-week practice plan
| Days | Where | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| 1–3 | Indoors/garden | Reward every 1–2 steps |
| 4–7 | Quiet street | Reward every 5 steps |
| 8–14 | Normal route | Reward at distractions, use “let’s go” to move on |
Equipment
A Y-shaped, well-fitted harness and a 1.5–2 m lead suit most dogs. Animal welfare bodies such as the RSPCA advise against aversive equipment like prong or choke collars; see RSPCA dog advice.
Common questions
How long does it take to stop a dog pulling?
Many dogs improve in two to three weeks with daily practice; strong habits can take a couple of months.
Are no-pull harnesses good?
A front-clip harness can reduce pulling while you train; it’s a management tool, not the training itself.
Why does my dog only pull on the way to the park?
Because the park is the reward. Practise near it and only proceed when the lead is loose.
What we’d look at next
Secrets to Dog Training
A long-running guide to everyday problems like pulling, according to the vendor.
Brain Training for Dogs
Games that build focus on you, which helps on walks.
Not sure which fits? Take the 30-second quiz or see our comparisons.
Related comparisons: Brain Training for Dogs vs Secrets to Dog Training · Best online guides for pet behaviour problems
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Get the free PDF
A short PDF: seven short, reward-based training sessions to build focus, a reliable sit, settling on a mat and loose-lead basics, plus a cat litter-tray checklist.