Small dog on a leash in a grassy area
Leash training a puppy to walk politely beside you is one of the most rewarding skills you can teach your canine companion. While it can be challenging, a well-trained dog that walks calmly on a leash enhances your outdoor experiences together. This guide will walk you through effective techniques to ensure your dog walks happily by your side, responding to your cues and enjoying the journey. Dog leash training is fundamental for a well-behaved dog and a more enjoyable partnership.
Prior to Leash Training a Puppy
Before you begin formal leash training, consider using tools that can help manage pulling in the meantime. A head collar or a front-attachment harness can discourage your dog from pulling excessively. These tools are safe and effective when used correctly, providing better control without causing discomfort. However, it’s crucial to remember that these are management tools, and consistent leash training is key to teaching your dog to walk without pulling.
A small tan dog wears a head collar on the left and a front-attachment harness on the right
Gigo wearing a Comfort Trainer head collar (left) and an Easy Walk front-attachment harness (right)
When using a head collar or front-attachment harness, opt for leashes that are a maximum of 6 feet long. Longer leashes can increase the risk of injury if your dog suddenly lunges and hits the end of the leash abruptly.
Young boy walking a small dog on a leash
Stop and Reward Method for Leash Training
A highly effective approach to leash training a puppy involves a simple “stop and reward” strategy. When your dog pulls, stop moving forward. When they are walking calmly by your side, reward them with a treat. This positive reinforcement teaches your dog that walking with you is more beneficial than pulling ahead. You can use small, high-value treats like bits of meat or cheese. If your dog isn’t food-motivated, alternatives like praise, a favorite toy, or a quick game of tug can also serve as rewards. A treat bag for your waist is a practical accessory to keep rewards accessible during training sessions.
Dog Leash Training Step by Step
The following steps break down the process of teaching your dog to walk politely on a leash. Consistency and patience are vital throughout this training journey.
Step 1: Walking with My Human Is Rewarding
Begin leash training by attaching your puppy to a long rope or leash (10-20 feet, non-retractable) while they wear a standard harness. In a familiar outdoor area like your backyard, use small, high-value treats. Decide on which side you prefer your dog to walk (traditionally the left) and deliver treats to that side, near your thigh. This conditions your dog to associate that position with positive reinforcement.
Walk briskly and vary your direction randomly. Reward your dog with praise and a treat whenever they naturally walk beside you on your chosen side. As they improve, you can gradually reduce the frequency of treats. If your dog shows little interest, try again later when they might be hungrier. Practice until your dog consistently stays by your side.
Gigo walking by my side. Feeding Gigo a treat by my side.
Step 2: Following You Is Worth It!
Continue practicing in your yard. When your dog starts to wander off or lag behind, use an upbeat voice to say “let’s go,” perhaps slapping your thigh a few times to get their attention. Turn and walk away from your dog. When they catch up, reward them with praise and a treat by your side. If they return quickly, offer an extra reward.
If the leash becomes tight and your dog doesn’t come towards you, stop walking and apply gentle leash pressure. This pressure serves as a reminder, not a force, to encourage them to return. Praise them and release the pressure as they move towards you. Reward them generously when they reach your side. Continue this until your dog is mostly staying by your side.
“Let’s go”, and walking away.
Step 3: Scheduled Sniff and Potty Breaks
Incorporate designated times for sniffing and potty breaks. About every five minutes, or when you would typically give a treat, say “go sniff” and allow your dog to explore or relieve themselves. This serves as a reward. If they pull during this free time, say “let’s go” and walk in the opposite direction, ending the break. When you’re ready to resume walking, simply say “let’s go” and continue.
Authorized sniff break!
Step 4: Increasing Focus and Attention
Continue practicing in your yard, now using a shorter leash (eventually 6 feet). Practice walking at different paces (fast, slow), stopping abruptly, and changing directions. Reward your dog for maintaining their position by your side during these variations. Gradually reduce rewards for normal walking but continue to offer extra rewards for staying close during challenging maneuvers or when distractions like other animals or people appear.
White dog on leash watching owner
Taking It to the Street: Leash Training in Public
Apply the same techniques used in your yard when walking in your neighborhood, but be prepared for increased distractions. Use a front-attachment harness or head collar for added control if needed, and carry high-value treats. Start by saying “let’s go” and walking. If your dog pulls or gets distracted, use the “let’s go” cue and change direction. Reward them generously for staying by your side, especially when faced with significant distractions. Remember to permit sniff breaks as part of the training.
Woman walking attentive black and tan dog
Challenge Your Dog During Leash Training
Introduce challenges to reinforce your dog’s focus. With your dog on a standard harness and a 6-foot leash, toss a ball or treat about 20 feet away. If your dog pulls towards the object, use the “let’s go” cue and walk in the opposite direction. If they walk beside you towards the object, allow them to reach it as their reward. You may start with a less desirable object or a longer leash to make this exercise easier.
Troubleshooting Common Leash Pulling Issues
- Dog crossing in front: Stomp or shuffle your feet slightly to make your presence more noticeable.
- Dog lagging behind: This might indicate fear or a health issue. Offer encouragement and gentle leash pressure. If they are lagging to sniff or potty, continue walking but apply only light pressure. Reward generously when they walk with you.
- Alternating between walking well and pulling: Stop rewarding the act of returning after pulling. Instead, focus on rewarding a larger number of consecutive steps taken by your side.
Small white and brown dog on a leash in the snow
How to Train a Dog to Walk On a Leash and Heel
For short periods when you need your dog exceptionally close and attentive, teaching “heel” is beneficial. Start this in your home by holding a treat in your fist, letting your dog sniff it. Say “let’s go” and take a few steps, keeping the treat near your thigh. Praise and reward them for following your fist with their nose.
Progress to using an empty fist, continuing to reward them for following. Gradually increase your expectations and practice in more distracting environments. Your closed fist can serve as a hand signal for “heel.” Explore our leash training aids and other unique dog products to support your training efforts.
I hope this guide helps you and your dog enjoy more pleasant and relaxed walks together.
