Pro Tips for Reducing Dog Leash Pulling on Walks

If you’ve ever felt like your dog is walking you instead of the other way around, you’re not alone! Leash pulling is one of the most common challenges dog owners face. While it’s a normal behavior, it can make walks stressful and even unsafe.

As professional dog walkers, we’ve worked with dogs of all ages, breeds, and energy levels, and we know how life-changing it can be when your pup learns to walk calmly by your side. Here are some tried-and-true tips to make walks more enjoyable for both of you.

1. Start with the Right Equipment

Before you even step outside, make sure your dog’s gear sets them up for success. A front-clip harness (such as the Freedom or Easy Walk harness) can make a huge difference! It redirects your dog’s movement toward you when they start to pull, helping reduce tension on both ends of the leash.

Avoid retractable leashes, which encourage constant tension and give dogs the freedom to dart ahead. A flat 4 to 6 foot leash offers much better control. Make sure everything fits comfortably, and check regularly for signs of wear or loose buckles.

2. Reinforce Good Walking Behavior

Positive reinforcement is your best friend! Reward your dog when they’re walking calmly by your side or keeping a loose leash. Use small treats, verbal praise, or a favorite toy—whatever motivates your pup most.

Timing is everything: reward as soon as they exhibit the behavior you want. If your dog walks nicely for even a few steps, mark that moment with a “yes!” or click (if you use a clicker) and offer a treat. Over time, they’ll learn that staying near you pays off.

3. Practice in Low-Distraction Environments

If your dog pulls as soon as you step outside, start practicing leash manners in quieter spaces first. Indoors, your backyard, or a calm neighborhood street can be great starting points.

Once your dog can walk on a loose leash in a distraction-free setting, gradually increase the challenge by adding new sights, sounds, and smells. Training in short, successful sessions helps build confidence and consistency.

4. Keep Walks Structured, Not Just for Exercise

Many dogs pull because they’re excited and overstimulated. Building a bit of structure into your walk can help channel that energy productively.

Try incorporating short training breaks: ask for “sit,” “watch me,” or “heel” at different points. This keeps your dog focused and reminds them that walks are a shared activity, not a race to the next tree.

At The Right Fluff, we also make sure dogs get a mix of exercise and enrichment, not just mileage. A few moments of sniffing or exploring calmly on cue can satisfy your dog’s curiosity and teach them to respond to direction.

5. Don’t Let Pulling “Work”

Dogs repeat behaviors that get them what they want. If pulling moves them forward, they learn that it’s effective. When your dog pulls, stop walking. Wait until the leash relaxes, then start again.

It might feel tedious at first, but consistency pays off. Over time, your dog will realize that pulling doesn’t make walks faster, walking calmly does.

6. Keep Calm and Consistent

Leash training doesn’t happen overnight, and frustration can make things worse. Stay patient and consistent, and celebrate small wins along the way. Every calm step is progress.

If multiple people walk your dog, make sure everyone follows the same rules and uses the same commands. Consistency helps your pup understand exactly what’s expected.

7. When to Ask for Help

If your dog’s pulling is extreme, or if they lunge or bark at other dogs or distractions, a certified positive reinforcement trainer can be a huge help. They’ll identify the root of the behavior and guide you through safe, effective techniques tailored to your dog’s needs.

Enjoy the Walk—Together

Leash walking should be one of the most enjoyable parts of your dog’s day, and yours, too! With a little patience, the right tools, and consistent practice, you can turn those tug-of-war walks into calm, happy strolls.

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The Right Fluff Pet Sitting offers professional, loving, and reliable dog walking and cat sitting services in Montgomery County, MD. We serve dog and cat owners across Rockville, Bethesda, Potomac, Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, Gaithersburg/Germantown and surrounding communities.

New clients can get started and book dog walking or pet sitting services using this form. Existing clients can log into their account to request services using this link.

More information on our pet care services can be found on our website or by contacting us by email at info@rightfluff.com or by calling us at 240-447-9523 to learn more.