Mastering the Art of Loose Leash Walking: Training Tips and Tools for Your Dog

Person Walking a Rough-Coated Collie

Walking your dog should be an enjoyable and stress-free experience for both you and your furry companion. However, if your dog constantly pulls on the leash, turning a leisurely stroll into a tug-of-war, it can be frustrating and even dangerous. Fortunately, there are effective training techniques and tools that can help you teach your dog to stop pulling and enjoy a more relaxed walk. In this article, we will explore various training methods and recommend some harnesses and collars that can assist in achieving loose leash walking success.

Understanding the Problem

Before diving into training methods and equipment, it's essential to understand why dogs pull on leashes. Dogs pull for various reasons, including excitement, curiosity, or simply because they've learned that pulling gets them where they want to go faster and or garners attention from you and passersby.  Dogs may also pull due to discomfort or fear, so it's *crucial to address any underlying issues before training.

Training Techniques

Positive Reinforcement: Positive reinforcement is a powerful tool in dog training. Reward your dog with treats, praise, and affection when they walk calmly by your side; especially when they do this while making eye contact with you.  We like to use the phrase  “Look at me”.  Use a clicker or a verbal cue like "Yes!" to mark the desired behavior.

Consistency: Consistency is key for so many things in life, including successful dog training. Use the same verbal cues and reward system every time you go for a walk. This helps your dog understand what you expect from them.  Once they thoroughly understand what you expect from them most dogs will gladly comply.

Stop-and-Go Method: When your dog starts pulling, stop walking immediately. Wait for them to release the tension on the leash and return to your side. Once they do, reward them and continue walking. This method teaches your dog that pulling makes the walk stop, while walking politely gets them to their destination.

Change Directions: If your dog pulls, you can try to change your direction abruptly. This encourages your dog to pay attention to your movements and stay by your side to avoid sudden changes.  Dogs and humans are alot alike, in that they are creatures of habit and don’t like sudden changes.

Australian Shepherd Dog Wearing Pet Safe Brand “Easy Walk Harness”

1. Recommended Training Aids

   No-Pull Harness: A no-pull harness, like the front-clip or head halter harness, can be an excellent tool. These harnesses discourage pulling by redirecting your dog's attention back towards you. Brands like the Pet Safe Brand "Easy Walk" or "Gentle Leader" harnesses are popular effective choices. * The beauty of the Easy-Walk Harness is that it also has a built in Martingale across the dog’s chest.

   Martingale Collar: This collar is designed to prevent dogs from slipping out, but it can also help discourage pulling when used correctly. It tightens slightly when your dog pulls, providing gentle feedback. The concept was borrowed from Horse harnesses used in their training.

   Prong Collar and Choke Chain: These collars should only be used under the guidance of a professional dog trainer. They provide a corrective response when your dog pulls, but do understand that misuse of either of them can harm your dog or worsen the pulling behavior.

   Back-Clip Harness: While not designed to stop pulling, a back-clip harness can be a comfortable option for dogs that don't respond well to other harnesses. It distributes pressure evenly across the chest, reducing the likelihood of injury. * Keep in mind that many dogs, especially this descending from the sled-pulling breeds will innately pull when a leash is attached to a back-clip harness, so choose your harness wisely depending on your dog’s behavior, age, size, and do keep in mind that genetics play a significant role.

   Teaching your dog to walk politely on a leash takes time, patience, and consistent effort. *Remember that each dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Be gentle, use positive reinforcement, and stay consistent in your training methods.

   Choosing the right harness or collar can make a significant difference in your loose leash walking journey. However, its highly advised that you consult with a professional dog trainer, animal behaviorist, or veterinarian before making a decision, as they can provide personalized advice based on your dog's specific needs and behavior.