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Everyday manners

Loose-Lead Walking: The Basics

Reward-based steps to stop pulling on the lead, without harsh equipment.

By Dr Hana LindqvistVeterinary review: Dr Elena Marsh6 min readPublished 2026-09-29Updated 2026-09-29
Illustration of a person rewarding an attentive dog with a treat and clicker

Why dogs pull

Pulling works — it gets dogs where they want to go faster. The aim is to make walking beside you more rewarding.

Steps

  • Start indoors with few distractions
  • Reward often when your dog is next to your leg
  • Stop and wait when the lead tightens
  • Move on as soon as it goes slack
  • Gradually practise in busier places

Equipment

A well-fitted harness is comfortable. Avoid choke, prong and shock collars, which cause pain and fear.

Be patient

Consistency matters more than long sessions. Everyone walking the dog should use the same rules.

References

  1. Loose lead walking — Dogs Trust
  2. Humane dog training position — BVA