Mastering loose leash walking is one of the most important skills you can teach your dog, making walks enjoyable, safe, and stress-free for both of you. Whether you’re starting with a puppy or working to improve an older dog’s habits, this simple guide will help you and your dog develop the skills needed for calm, confident walking.
Mastering Loose Leash Walking & Why Loose Leash Walking Matters
Loose leash walking is about more than just good manners—it’s about building trust, keeping your dog safe, and creating a stronger bond. A dog that walks calmly by your side is less likely to pull, lunge, or get into trouble, making every outing a pleasure.
What You’ll Need
Before starting, make sure you have:
1. A Double-Point Harness: Provides comfort and better control for your dog.
2. A Fixed Leash: Avoid flexi-leads as they encourage pulling.
3. Treats or Rewards: Use high-value treats to reinforce good behaviour.
Getting Started: Step-by-Step Training
1. Begin Indoors
Start in a quiet, distraction-free space like your home or garden. Attach the leash and reward your dog for calm behaviour while getting them used to the sensation.
2. Teach the ‘Heel’ Position
Use a treat to guide your dog to your side and introduce a cue like “heel” or “close.” Reward them each time they stay by your side and walk calmly.
3. Stop and Wait
If your dog pulls, stop walking immediately. Wait for the leash to go slack, then reward them and continue walking. This helps your dog understand that pulling gets them nowhere.
4. Gradually Increase Challenges
Once your dog is consistent indoors, move to outdoor spaces, starting with quiet areas and gradually increasing distractions, such as parks or busier streets.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Pulling: Use the stop-and-wait method and reward them for refocusing.
Getting Distracted: Use treats and the “look at me” cue to regain their focus.
Lagging Behind: Encourage them with a cheerful voice and reward them when they catch up.
The Mealtime Walking Game
For puppies, mealtimes can double as training! Walk around with their food bowl and reward them each time they follow you calmly. This builds a strong foundation for leash training while keeping it fun.
Consistency is Key
With regular practice and positive reinforcement, your dog will master loose leash walking and turn every walk into a joyful experience. Take it step by step and celebrate the progress—happy walking!
We’re Here to Help Every Step of the Way
At Paws Academy, we understand that every dog and owner are unique, and sometimes you might need extra guidance to make training as successful as possible. That’s why we offer a variety of support options tailored to your needs:
Virtual Coaching: For those who can’t attend in person, we provide online coaching sessions to guide you through training and behaviour challenges from the comfort of your home.
Puppy Classes: Join our structured classes to build essential skills, socialise your puppy, and get hands-on support from our expert trainers.
One-to-One Behavioural Support: If you’re dealing with specific challenges, our personalised one-to-one sessions provide targeted solutions to help you and your dog thrive.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support—we’re here to ensure you and your dog achieve success together. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule your first session!