How to Stop Your Dog Pulling on the Lead

Not all dog training methods or products are suitable for every dog. A dog's response to training will depend on his strength, obedience and the number of years or months he has been pulling on the lead. You will need to find what works best for your own dog. Perhaps a combination of training techniques and dog control products will enable you to train your dog to stop pulling on the lead.

Training Techniques to Stop a Dog Pulling

These techniques should be used during training sessions with your dog.

• Have plenty of small treats in your left pocket. Ask the dog to sit, praise and treat, letting him see that the treat came from your left pocket. Walk with the dog on your left side. When the dog looks at you, praise him and give a treat. This works best if you wait for the dog to look at you of his own accord, without you speaking to him to get his attention. Continue walking for a few seconds, and again when the dog looks at you, praise and give another treat. Continue every few seconds, increasing and varying the length of time between treats. You can either ask the dog to sit before giving the treat, or feed him as you both continue walking. Then introduce the command "heel" whilst you are walking along. Use a soft friendly tone. Keeping you hand in the treat pocket will help keep your dogs attention as he waits for the treat to appear.
• With the dog on a loose lead, stop or change direction when your dog pulls. Only move forward when the dog is not pulling.
• Walk close to a long fence or wall, with the dog between yourself and the fence. If the dog tries to walk in front of you, say "heel" and walk closer to the fence, blocking the dog with your leg, so he is unable to push forwards. This is a technique used by Police dog handlers in training dogs to stop pulling on their lead.

If your dog does not respond to the above training methods, then try a halter or harness designed to stop your dog pulling:

Gentle Leader Used by Bramcote Dog Walkers

When a dog pulls on his lead, walking your dog can become something you dread, and can result in you getting back pain and pulled muscles. There is no need to put up with this, when there are some excellent products available to correct your dog, and encourage him to walk properly.