How to Train a Dog to Walk Nicely Without Pulling

Choke chain collars are not only dangerous (dogs have died while wearing them) but are not effective training tools. Many dogs soon learn they can still lean into, and pull, while wearing a choke chain collar.

Training a dog to walk properly starts at the beginning, when a dog is first learning how to walk on a leash. The problem starts when owners “think” they can train the dog themselves and fail to attend basic obedience lessons. After all how hard can it be? If the dog doesn’t walk, you just pull it, right? WRONG! The old way of thinking was to train a dog by force, pushing down on the bum to get it to sit, and pulling it to get it to walk. This method was unsuccessful on a good many dogs, and as a result we see many dogs who are not good at being walked.

photo source

The first thing a dog should learn is its name, then it learns to come when called, then sit, down, and finally how to walk on a leash. To be clear, this can be taught to any dog regardless of age or previous leash training and bad habits, however, puppies who have not mastered the basics, and who are not fully vaccinated should be not taken out of their yard for training.

The dog must realize that you are its pal, and a source for rewards. Dogs thrive on rewards, most love food treats, some love praise, others will do anything for their favorite toy. As food treats are the most common motivator that is what we will talk about using.

Arm yourself with a small bag full of small soft treats (do not use dry treats as they do not offer instant reward). There are many soft treat options available in the stores (even special training products) or you can use wieners. Whatever you use cut it up into tiny pieces.

The dog must know you have these treats. Most people walk the dog on their left and use their right hand to give the treat rewards, you might switch this if you are left-handed. The leash should be short, no more than 6 ft long, but a 4ft leash is even better if you have a large dog. Use a regular collar (not choke chain) or harness. Walk and say the word “Heel”. We are assuming here that the dog already knows how to walk, and we are simply training it not to pull. As soon as the dog starts to pull, you must stop walking. Resist pulling the dog, instead say the word “Heel” and offer a treat by your side that the dog must come back for.

Many people will continue in this way holding the treat by their side, offering the dog a nibble occasionally as it walks nicely beside them. The dog will realize there is no point in being way out front as the treats are not up there, but rather they are at the owners side.

photo source - SPCA dog showing more or less the correct position a dog should be in for a walk.

Some dogs might require a further training aid, such as a halter. Think of a horse, people can lead a massive horse with a halter without it pulling, so it can also work for a dog. These halters are sold under many names and are known to work very well. Used in combination with reward based training, a dog should learn to walk correctly and politely in a matter of a few weeks.  These halters are often sold under the names of “Halti” or “Gentle Leader”, but there may be other brands.

Tips:

Remember to keep training sessions short, ending on a positive rather than getting into a fight.

Never PULL your dog into position.  Use treats!

Training leashes should be no more than 6 ft, 4 ft leashes are even better.

Your first lessons should be in your home, or back yard, progressing out as the dog improves, but remember never take an unvaccinated puppy out of your yard.

Formal Obedience lessons are great if the dog is having problems, particularly with focusing around other dogs – look for an Obedience school that uses positive reward training (such as clicker training).

All dogs, even big strong dogs, have the ability to walk beside their owner politely.

All dogs, even small dogs, should be trained to walk correctly on a leash.

Related Links

The Six Most Dangerous Dogs

The Six Safest Dogs for homes with Children

Is your Dog as Healthy as you THINK it is ?

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