As a rule, we must carry the dog on a leash in public places, and there are also very few dogs well trained to walk with their owner or stay still in a place without attending to other stimuli, such as another dog, a cat or a ball. So it is important that learn to walk on a leash from very young, because they are going to use it a lot.
Ideally, all dogs could walk freely, but especially in the cities the rules are strict, and not wearing it on a leash can lead to a fine. That is why a dog must know how to walk on a leash early, to adapt to its daily walks. Puppies or dogs that don't know what it is can become overwhelmed or immobile by this new sensation, so you have to know how to unlock them.
We have seen puppies many times that the first time they are put on a leash they either wriggle or they stand still, because they don't like the feeling of someone pulling them, and they don't know that they have to walk alongside us. The more we throw, the more they will overwhelm and block, so we have to go little by little.
One of the best tricks for leash walking is bring some sweets with us. As soon as they get overwhelmed, we must stop applying pressure with the leash, and if they do not continue to walk, take out the candy to motivate them and continue walking. It's about associating leash and walking with something good, to make it a positive experience for them. Over time they will get used to the feeling of the collar and strap and they will already know that they should not be overwhelmed, that we only guide them with it.
Why is it so important to teach a dog to walk on a leash?
Walking on a leash is not something dogs are born with, it's a skill that is learnedMost dogs, even adults, haven't been taught to behave calmly on a leash. If this isn't addressed, it's common for the dog to become unruly. pull hard, crosses, lunges at other animals, or gets blocked.
These continuous pulls not only make the walk uncomfortable for the human, they are also a source of physical stress For the dog. A constantly taut leash can overload the neck, spine, and joints, as well as increase the animal's agitation and frustration. Many problems such as Aggression on a leash or the bad responses to the call worsen when the dog feels it has to pull or go ahead of everything.
Therefore, teaching your dog to walk calmly on a leash not only improves walks, but also strengthens the bond with the guide. The dog learns that the person sets the pace and direction, and that following them brings good things: rewards, games, and the opportunity to continue exploring.
Choosing the right equipment: collar, harness, and leash type
Before starting training, it is advisable to choose the right one walking gearA comfortable harness is a good option for most dogs, as it distributes pressure better and prevents neck strain, especially in small breeds, dogs that pull, or those with breathing problems. A collar can be useful for dogs that already walk calmly, but it should always be properly adjusted and comfortable.
Regarding the leash, to teach a dog to walk without pulling, it is preferable to use a fixed strap between 1,5 and 2 metersExtendable (flexi) leashes are not recommended during the learning phase because they work by rewarding the act of pulling: the more the dog presses, the more rope it gets, the opposite of what we want to teach.
Make sure the material is durable and comfortable for your hand, and that the carabiner is secure. For very strong or energetic dogs, harnesses or no-pull collars can be considered, but it's important to always use them as a safety measure. training support and, if possible, under the supervision of a professional dog trainer.
First steps: getting the puppy or adult dog used to the equipment
Whether it's a puppy or an adult dog newly arrived home, the first goal is for the dog feel comfortable with the collar or harness. Start by putting a light collar or soft harness on for short periods, checking the fit daily so you can make adjustments as needed. two fingers between the neck and the collar without it being too loose.
It's normal for the dog to try to remove the collar or scratch the area at first. Instead of scolding him, distract him with soft toys or sweets As soon as you put it on her. When she stops paying attention to the accessory, you can take it off. Over several days, gradually increase the time she wears it until she forgets she's even wearing it.
When your dog tolerates the collar or harness well, it's time to present the leashAttach the leash in a safe environment, such as the house or garden, and let your dog move around for a few minutes while you play with him and reward him. The idea is for the leash to become associated with him. pleasant momentsnot by jerking or by obligation.
How to teach your dog to walk without pulling: loose leash and walking area
Once the dog accepts the leash well, we begin the work of walking with the leash looseImagine a small area next to you, near your leg, where you want the dog to move. As long as the dog stays in that imaginary area and the leash is loose, the walk progresses and good things happen. If the dog moves ahead or outside that area and the leash tightens, the walk stops.
At first it is advisable to practice in places with few distractionsA hallway, the living room, a patio, or a very quiet street. Walk a few steps and reward the dog each time it follows you without pulling on the leash. You can use small pieces of kibble from its daily ration or small treats, given to very frequent intervals at first.
Once you notice your dog understands the process, gradually increase the difficulty: lengthen the time between treats, introduce turns, changes of pace, and then environments with more stimuli. If at any point the leash becomes tight, Stay still or take a few steps backDon't move forward until he's back by your side and the leash is loose again. It's essential that the dog learns that Throwing it away won't help. to get to what he wants faster.
In dogs that quickly lose interest in food or treats, you can work only with motion controlIf he pulls, back away or make him take a few steps back with your body, without being abrupt or punished, simply indicating with body language that moving forward is only possible when the leash is loose.
Organizing training sessions and managing distractions
Learning to leash requires high concentration on the part of both the dog and the handler. It's better to work in short sessions, of just a few minutes, several times a day, rather than forcing it during very long walks. You can differentiate between a training mode and a relaxed walking mode using, for example, a collar for the stricter sessions and a harness for more free walking, being consistent with each one.
Outside, the main challenges are other dogs, people, noises, and strong smells. At first, practice in places with little stimulation And increase the difficulty level very slowly. As the environment becomes more interesting, also increase the value of the rewards and your involvement: talk to your dog, change direction, play fetch with a treat in your hand or on the ground near you, and keep their attention. focused attention in your presence.
If the dog freezes or refuses to move forward, it may be scared or overwhelmed. Instead of dragging it, return to a safer or less demanding area, encourage it in a soft voice, and rewards any small progressA dog that feels understood and is not forced usually regains confidence and interest in walking alongside its handler.
Consistency is key: if one day you allow the dog to run to what it wants by pulling on the leash, you will be reinforcing the very behavior you want to avoid. It is important that all the people in the family Follow the same rules during walks and give your full attention to the dog, avoiding distractions such as your mobile phone while training.
When you combine the right equipment, short but regular sessions, positive reinforcement, and clear limits on pulling, most dogs learn to enjoy walks without tension on the leash. The result is calmer, safer, and more enjoyable outings for both of you, as the dog understands that walking close to its human is the best way to explore the world.