Are you tired of your dog pulling, lunging, or dragging you on walks? These habits create tension, risk injury, and turn strolls into struggles. Leash training solves all that—starting today.

Leash training teaches your dog to walk calmly beside you, improves behavior, and deepens your bond—especially with the right dog leash and collar setup.

Walks should be bonding time, not battles. Let’s explore how to leash train your dog the right way.

How to Train Your Dog to Walk on the Leash?

Leash training starts by setting a calm, confident tone. Begin in a distraction-free space such as your backyard or living room. Attach a dog leash and collar, or for sensitive dogs, a dog leash harness that reduces neck pressure.

Allow your dog to acclimate to the feeling of the leash—don’t rush the process. When they are relaxed, start walking slowly. Use treats or toys to encourage them to stay by your side. Each step they take beside you without pulling deserves praise or a reward.

Raysunpets, a pet gear specialist in custom dog leash solutions, recommends using lightweight, padded leashes for early training. A heavy or uncomfortable leash can hinder progress and confuse your dog.

Avoid retractable dog leash styles in the beginning as they promote pulling and make it harder to establish consistent leash behavior. Instead, opt for a fixed-length leash between 4 to 6 feet to foster better communication and control.

How to Teach Dog Not to Pull on Leash?

Dogs often pull on the leash because they’re excited, curious, or simply haven’t been taught otherwise. To put a stop to this habit, consistency is key.

Start by standing still when your dog pulls. Only resume walking once the leash slackens and they return to your side. This teaches them that pulling gets them nowhere.

You can also use the “turn and walk the other way” method. When your dog surges ahead, stop and turn around. Eventually, they learn that pulling results in the walk being interrupted.

As a trusted pet supplies expert, Raysunpets recommends using a heavy-duty dog leash or a hands-free dog leash for stronger breeds or active owners. These options provide better leverage and free your hands for clicker training or carrying treats.

Training sessions should be short but frequent—5 to 10 minutes daily can yield major improvements over time. Remember to reward calm walking generously, and never yank the leash, as this can lead to fear or resistance.

How to Stop Dog from Pulling on Leash When Walking?

Putting a stop to leash pulling during real-world walks requires reinforcing the habits learned during training. Begin each walk with a calm mindset—if your dog is overly excited, wait for them to settle before heading out. Consider using a sturdy dog leash rope or heavy-duty dog leash for better control, especially in busy or stimulating environments.

Maintain a consistent pace, and don’t let your dog set the direction or speed. Use cues like “heel” or “let’s go,” and immediately reward the behavior when they walk beside you.

If your dog starts pulling, stop. Reestablish control and direction before proceeding. Over time, your dog will learn that the most enjoyable walks happen when they stay close.

Raysunpets advises against using retractable dog leash products for dogs prone to pulling. Instead, use a dog leash harness or short lead that keeps the dog close without compromising comfort.

The right gear plays a huge role in leash training success. A custom-designed leash, tailored to your dog’s size and behavior, can prevent injuries, reduce stress, and make daily walks more enjoyable for both of you.

Summary

Leash training builds better habits and brings peace to every walk.