Loose-lead walking

Step by step

1. Step 1

   Reward the zone

   In a quiet place, reward the dog frequently beside you while the lead remains loose.

2. Step 2

   Take a few steps

   Move two or three steps, mark the slack lead and reward. Change direction before pulling starts.

3. Step 3

   Use the environment

   Release the dog to sniff as a reward for a few loose-lead steps.

4. Step 4

   Add difficulty gradually

   Increase distance and distraction separately, returning to easier practice when tension rises.

Troubleshooting

• If pulling is constant, the environment is too difficult or the pace is too slow.
• Avoid jerking the lead; stop or smoothly change direction.