How to train Loose Leash Walking!

I approach teaching a dog to walk loosely on a leash using three different methods. While you are walking your dog and learning its habits, you can choose which method is best suited for your dog’s needs. Many times I end up using all three.

Before we dive into training loose leash walking, if you don’t have this EasyWalk harness then stop and order one now. This harness will make leash training so much easier. Okay, on to the training!

All or nothing approach – When your dog is pulling on the leash, simply stop walking. Don’t go forward unless the leash is loose. Your dog will learn “when I feel the tightness on my collar from the leash, we stop moving. When the tightness stops, we get to walk forward again.”

Lure reward training – Have a treat in the hand that is next to your dog. Have him smell the treat, and as he walks next to you, praise and randomly give a treat. If he is walking next to you and looks at you, give them a big treat. This method is great if your dog gets distracted and stops to sniff. If you have a treat that your dog likes a lot, have the treat in your hand and move it by his nose to lure them back into the walk.

Run the other way – If you have a dog that has a lot of energy and learns better on the move, this is a great method to use. Dogs also LOVE to play chase (never chase your dog, always have him chase you. We don’t want to teach your dog to run away from you). When your dog begins to pull on the leash, turn yourself around and say “let’s go” and walk or jog the other direction. You can make a U-turn so you can go where you were originally planning; just make sure to only continue when your dog is not pulling. If just going the other direction doesn’t work, make some noise to get his attention, run halfway to him, then go the other direction (enticing a chase.) The video below gives you a visual demonstration.



By using these three methods, staying consistent and telling your dog what you want him to do by rewarding good behavior, you will be able to go on a nice, leisurely walk with your four legged friend!

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