Leash Walking Dog Training Tips

1. Attach the leash to a harness (avoid attaching it to a collar and don’t use choke chains, prong/pinch collars, or electronic remote shock collars, since these hurt dogs including the soft part of their neck - their windpipe-trachea). 

2. If your dog pulls, gently stop to obstruct your dog from moving forward. This will prevent your dog from being reinforced for pulling to get to the things he wants. He will learn he has to walk calmly without pulling to move instead.

3. Reward your dog for walking by your side or for a loose leash (i.e., for non-pulling behavior). Rewards can consist of treats broken into small pieces. Rotate through different treats over time, so your dog doesn’t become too bored with any one type. You can also use toy rewards for dogs with motivation for them.

4. Choose areas to walk with plenty of space, so your dog can explore by moving around. 

5. Walk your dog in new locations for more excitement and the ability to sniff and investigate new scents and sights. 

6. Allow your dog to sniff as much as he wants. 

7. Avoid pulling your dog on leash. For example, if he stops to sniff something, don’t just keep moving forward and drag him along. If you want to keep moving or change directions, give your dog verbal cues so he notices and can change direction with you. You can choose your own cue (common ones are using your dog’s name + “come on” or “this way”).

8. To prevent reactive behavior, if your dog is friendly/social with no aggressive issues, then allow him to meet and greet other similar dogs. If he cannot meet other dogs on leash - either due to fear/aggression, or the other dog’s behavior, or simply at that moment - then praise and give your dog treats for passing by the other dog. This will reinforce calm walking behavior, and prevent negative associations and frustrations with seeing other dogs. 

9. Pre-teach obedience or foundation behaviors so you can use them on walks - recall (coming when called), leave it, attention behavior - your dog responding to his name, etc.

10. Sign up for a Dog Training Plus membership for additional help. We can work together, and create customized training plans for your individual dogs, and provide additional help with reactive behavior on leash.