How to Stop Leash Pulling: Make Walks Enjoyable Again

Walking your dog should be a joy, not a tug-of-war. Yet many owners feel frustrated, embarrassed, or even exhausted when their dog drags them down the street. If you’re searching for how to stop leash pulling, you’re not alone—and the good news is, it’s possible to teach your dog to walk politely with you, making walks calm, connected, and enjoyable for both of you.

In our recent episode of the Cornerstone Dog Training podcast, we unpacked why leash pulling happens and practical steps to address it.

Why Dogs Pull on the Leash

Dogs pull because of a reflex they have, called opposition reflex. It’s not so much a behavioral issue, as it is an innate reaction to pressure. Where behavior comes into play is what happens when they pull. Every step forward is a reward if they are pulling toward smells, people, or dogs. It’s not about dominance; it’s about reflex and what they are gaining when they lean into it. The key to stopping leash pulling is helping your dog understand that walking beside you is what earns them forward movement.

Step-by-Step: How to Stop Leash Pulling

1. Choose the Right Equipment

A well-fitted collar paired with a standard leash is ok, but a slip lead is best for puppies. Avoid retractable leashes if you want your dog to learn not to pull, as they teach your dog that pulling gets them more space.

2. Start with Engagement

Before you walk, get your dog’s attention. Practice eye contact and small focus exercises in your driveway or home to ensure your dog is tuned in.

3. Change Direction

If your dog pulls, turn and walk in the opposite direction. This keeps your dog’s attention on you and adds unpredictability to your walk, which keeps your dog checking in with you rather than charging ahead.

4. Pressure and Release

When working on walking, we want to avoid a tight leash. The method we want to use is popping the leash. Every time you change direction, pop the leash and keep walking.

5. Reward Loose Leash Walking

Carry kibble or use verbal praise when your dog walks beside you with a slack leash. Reward frequently in the beginning to help your dog understand that staying near you is rewarding. After a few weeks, you should be able to wean off of kibble.

6. Be Consistent When Walking

Every step you take while your dog is pulling is a step reinforcing the behavior. Be patient and consistent, and understand that learning polite leash walking takes practice, not just a single walk.

Mindset Matters: Don’t Make Walks a Battle

Stopping leash pulling is about teaching them to focus on you. Dogs don’t pull to make you angry; they pull because they are designed to pull when they feel pressure. By teaching your dog that a loose leash is the key to moving forward, you shift your walks from stressful to enjoyable. When your dog focuses on you, they feel secure. Focus kills chaos.

Need Extra Help?

If you’re struggling with how to stop leash pulling despite trying these strategies, consider working with us! At Cornerstone Dog Training, we specialize in helping dogs and their owners achieve calm, confident walks together. Our courses can change your entire walk experience, replacing frustration with freedom and connection.

Listen to the Full Episode

Want a deeper dive into why leash pulling happens and how to fix it effectively? Tune in to our latest episode of the Puppy Training Principles podcast here for detailed examples, mindset shifts, and practical encouragement as you teach your dog to walk politely on leash.