Why Your Dog Pulls on the Leash—and How to Finally Fix It

k9HS - Carlos F Morales
4 days ago
4 min read

Picture this: You clip on your dog’s leash, ready for a peaceful morning walk. But the moment you step outside, your calm companion transforms into a sled dog, towing you down the sidewalk while you fight to keep your footing.

Sound familiar?

If you’re nodding along, you’re not alone. Leash pulling is one of the most common frustrations in dog training—but it isn’t about dominance or stubbornness. It’s a completely natural behavior that can be redirected through patient, evidence-based methods.

In this post, you’ll learn why dogs pull, explore five proven techniques that work with your dog’s instincts, and get a practical seven-day plan to turn tug-of-war walks into relaxed strolls.

Understanding Why Dogs Pull

They Walk Faster Than We Do

Most dogs simply move at a quicker pace. Their bodies were designed for efficient, forward movement—a survival advantage that doesn’t translate well to a slow human stride.

The World Is a Scent Library

Every walk is a sensory adventure. Dogs experience their surroundings through smell far more than sight. A fire hydrant isn’t just a landmark—it’s their version of social media updates from every pup in the neighborhood.

Pulling Works

Here’s the real secret: pulling gets results. When a dog pulls toward something and the person follows, the pulling is rewarded with forward motion. That pattern of intermittent reinforcement makes the behavior strong and persistent.

Five Evidence-Based Solutions for Loose-Leash Walking

1. Be a Tree

Teach your dog that tension makes the walk stop.

The moment you feel the leash tighten, freeze.
Stay still and silent—no pulling back or scolding.
Wait until the leash slackens or your dog looks at you.
The instant it does, praise and move forward.
Repeat this consistently.

Your dog quickly learns that a loose leash keeps the walk moving.

2. Change Direction Strategically

Frequent, gentle turns keep your dog tuned in to you.

When your dog forges ahead, pivot smoothly and walk the other way.
Use an upbeat tone: “This way!”
Praise and reward when your dog catches up.
Keep your path unpredictable so your pup pays attention.

3. The Attention Game

Focus is the foundation for all leash skills.

Start indoors without the leash.
Reward eye contact with a high-value treat.
Add a cue such as “look” or “watch me.”
Practice for two or three minutes, several times a day.
Move outdoors gradually as focus improves.

4. Create a Reinforcement Zone

Show your dog exactly where the “sweet spot” is beside you.

Choose your preferred side—left or right.
Keep treats in the pocket nearest that side.
Reward only when your dog walks within that zone.
Make that space the most rewarding place to be.

5. Red Light, Green Light

Turn training into a simple game of impulse control.

Place a small pile of treats four to five feet ahead.
Walk toward it only while the leash stays loose.
If your dog pulls, stop immediately (red light).
When the leash slackens, move forward again (green light).
Let your dog earn the treats for walking politely.

Equipment That Helps

Front-Clip Harness

A front-clip design redirects forward momentum back toward you, reducing the strength of pulling without discomfort.

Ideal Leash Length

A six-foot leash offers balance—enough freedom for exploration, yet short enough for communication and control.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Pulling back when your dog pulls triggers their natural resistance reflex.
Retractable leashes teach constant tension—avoid them during training.
Punishment or leash corrections can increase frustration and anxiety, making pulling worse.

Your 7-Day Action Plan

Days 1–2:

Practice the Attention Game indoors for five to ten minutes each day.

Days 3–4:

Add the Be a Tree technique in a quiet area outside.

Days 5–6:

Incorporate Direction Changes and the Reinforcement Zone.

Day 7:

Combine all techniques on a short neighborhood walk.

Some dogs adapt within a week; others need more time. Patience and consistency are your strongest tools.

What Research Tells Us

Studies show that front-clip harnesses significantly reduce pulling pressure compared to neck collars, improving both control and comfort (Ogburn et al., 2021).
Research comparing common walking aids found that humane harness designs reduce stress indicators and physical strain more effectively than correction-based tools (Ng et al., 2024).
Positive reinforcement methods lead to stronger learning and better welfare outcomes than aversive approaches (Hiby et al., 2004).

Together, this research confirms that loose-leash success comes from reward-based strategies and comfortable, well-fitted gear.

Final Thought

Leash pulling isn’t defiance—it’s communication. Your dog is excited, curious, and moving at their natural rhythm. With consistent practice and clear feedback, you can teach them that walking by your side keeps the adventure going.

Those calm, connected walks you imagined at the start? They’re not far away—just a few steady steps at a time.

References

Hiby, E. F., Rooney, N. J., & Bradshaw, J. W. (2004). Dog training methods: Their use, effectiveness and interaction with behaviour and welfare. Animal Welfare, 13, 63–70.
Ogburn, A., et al. (2021). Dog pulling on the leash: Effects of restraint by a neck collar vs. a body harness. National Library of Medicine.
Ng, Z., et al. (2024). Comparing efficacy in reducing pulling and welfare impacts of four commonly used training aids in dogs. National Library of Medicine.

About the Author

Carlos is the head trainer and educator at Canine High School in Long Beach, CA, a force-free Puppy School and Dog School. He developed the School’s comprehensive Dog Training System, Curriculum, and Philosophy, all rooted in positive reinforcement methods. Beyond educating canine students and their human families, Carlos leads a professional teaching program offering apprenticeship and internship opportunities for aspiring dog trainers.

As a Certified Mentor Trainer for multiple dog training schools and holding certifications with both the IAABC (International Association of Animal Behavior Consultants) and CCPDT (Certification Council for Professional Dog Trainers), Carlos brings scientific expertise and real-world experience to every training approach. When he’s not helping dogs and their humans build stronger relationships, you’ll find him at his little house by the beach with his partner, three dogs—GoGo, Kiba, and Choji—and a sassy cat named Habibti.