Teach your dog to walk calmly by your side without pulling
🎯 What is Loose Leash Walking?
Loose leash walking means your dog walks beside you with the leash relaxed (not pulling tight). It’s not a strict “heel”—your dog can explore, sniff, and enjoy the walk, but they do so without dragging you.
🧱 Step 1: Set Up for Success
✅ What You’ll Need:
- 6-foot leash (avoid retractables while training) – minimum length
- Well-fitting harness or flat collar (no choke or prong)
- High-value treats (small, soft, and yummy)
- Clicker or marker word (like “Yes!” or “Good!”)
- Quiet space to start (backyard, hallway, or driveway)
👣 Step 2: Teach Your Dog Where to Be
Pick which side you want your dog to walk on (left or right) and stick to it.
🏋️♂️ Exercise: “Find the Zone”
- Stand still with your dog on a leash.
- Wait quietly. The moment your dog stands beside you and looks at you, click/mark and treat.
- Take one or two steps forward. If your dog stays beside you, click/mark and treat again.
- Repeat in small bursts of 3–5 steps.
Goal: Help your dog learn that being next to you = treats and praise.
🧠 Step 3: Practice Short Sessions
Practice 3–5 minutes at a time, a few times a day. Focus on rewarding:
- Staying close to you
- Walking without pulling
- Looking at you (check-ins)
Tip: Keep your energy calm and encouraging. Walk slowly at first.
🛑 Step 4: Stop When the Leash Tightens
🚫 What to do if your dog pulls:
- Stop immediately. Don’t move forward.
- Wait quietly for your dog to turn back or loosen the leash.
- When the leash is slack, mark and move again.
- If you think the leash will remain slack you can continue in the same direction
- If you think the dog will go back to pulling you should move in a different direction.
Why It Works: Pulling no longer “works” to get what they want.
🔁 Step 5: Reward, Repeat, and Build
As your dog improves, start walking in more distracting places:
- Backyard → sidewalk → park → near other dogs
🎯 Reward frequently at first:
- Every 1–2 steps
- Gradually increase to every 5–10 steps as they succeed
- Use food, praise, or even a quick sniff break as rewards
🧩 Step 6: Add Engagement Games
Make your walks interactive to keep your dog focused:
- “Let’s Go!” Turns: Change direction and reward your dog for following.
- “Find It!”: Toss a treat near your feet and say “Find it!” to redirect attention.
- Sniff Breaks: Use “Go sniff!” as a reward for walking nicely.
🚨 Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Fix |
| Pulling back on the leash | Stop or change direction instead |
| Letting dog pull to greet people or dogs | Wait for a loose leash first |
| Long, stressful walks | Keep training walks short and positive |
| Inconsistent rules | Stick to the same cues and side every time |
❤️ Encouragement for Guardians
Loose leash walking takes time and patience—especially with young or energetic dogs. Keep sessions short and fun. Celebrate small wins, like 3 steps without pulling, and build from there.
Remember: Every walk is a training opportunity. The more you practice, the better it gets.