Top 5 tips to stop pulling on leash(Trainer approved!)
- by Christian Delgado
Top 5 Trainer-Approved Tips to Stop Dog Pulling on Leash
Turn tug-of-war walks into stress-free bonding time with these expert-backed leash training strategies.
Walking your dog should be enjoyable—but if your pup is dragging you down the street, you’re not alone. Over 80% of dog owners struggle with leash pulling, turning peaceful walks into daily battles. Not only does this make outings stressful, but pulling can also cause:
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Injury to your dog’s throat or trachea
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Frustration for owners and pets alike
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Negative associations with walking
The good news? Leash pulling is 100% fixable with the right gear, timing, and consistency. Professional trainers deal with this issue every day and know what works.
In this guide, you’ll learn the top 5 trainer-approved strategies to stop leash pulling—and finally enjoy calm, controlled walks with your dog.
Tip 1: Use the Right Dog Walking Equipment
The gear you choose can make or break your leash training success. Each type of equipment serves a different purpose:
Flat Collars
Great for dogs who already walk politely, but risky for pullers. Pressure goes directly to the throat, which can damage the trachea and encourage resistance.
Best for: Light pullers, small dogs, or already trained pups.
Prong Collars
Despite their look, prong collars distribute pressure evenly and provide clear communication. Effective when used correctly—but they require handler education.
Best for: Large, strong pullers and experienced handlers.
Harnesses
Front-clip harnesses redirect pulling energy to the side instead of forward, protecting your dog’s neck while giving you better control.
Best for: Chronic pullers, puppies, and neck-sensitive dogs.
👉 Dawg-Tec Recommendation: Our trainer-approved harnesses balance control, comfort, and durability. Front-clip designs naturally redirect pulling, making training more effective and walks more enjoyable.
The Game-Changer: E-Harness Technology
Unlike traditional e-collars, the Dawg-Tec E-Harness distributes gentle contact points across the body. This allows precise communication without neck strain—giving you both safety and control.
Tip 2: Reward Loose Leash Walking (Timing is Everything)
Most owners correct pulling too late. Instead, focus on rewarding calm walking.
The 3-Second Rule: Reward within 3 seconds of good behavior to build clear associations.
✅ What to reward:
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A loose “J-shaped” leash
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Eye contact or “check-ins”
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Slowing down without being asked
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Walking beside you
✅ Best reward methods:
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High-value treats
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Verbal praise (“Yes!” or “Good walk!”)
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Sniff breaks as life rewards
🚫 Common mistakes:
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Rewarding after pulling starts
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Giving treats while the leash is tight
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Only rewarding at the end of the walk
Pro Tip: Keep treats handy in a pouch for instant timing. Quick reinforcement speeds up results.
Tip 3: Stay Consistent with Leash Pressure
Inconsistent handling = confused dogs. Every family member must follow the same rules.
Proven Techniques:
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Stop-and-Go: Stop when tension appears. Move forward only when the leash is slack.
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Direction Changes: Keep your dog focused by switching directions when pulling starts.
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Tree Technique: Stand still like a tree until your dog releases tension.
Pressure Guidelines:
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Never jerk or yank.
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Use steady, calm pressure.
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Release instantly when your dog responds.
📌 Family Consistency Checklist:
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Agree on one method and one set of commands.
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Hold a “family practice session” without the dog first.
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Log progress together to keep everyone accountable.
Tip 4: Keep Training Sessions Short & Frequent
Dogs learn best with short, positive sessions instead of long, frustrating ones.
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Puppies (8-16 weeks): 5–10 mins, 3–4x daily
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Adult dogs: 10–15 mins, 2–3x daily
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Seniors: 8–12 mins, 2x daily
Session Formula:
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Warm-up (2 mins): Attention games in a quiet area
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Active training (5–10 mins): Loose leash walking with rewards
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Cool-down (2–3 mins): End with an easy win
📌 Track Progress With:
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Weekly photos showing leash slack
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Distance goals (start at 50 ft, increase gradually)
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Different environments (quiet → busy)
Rule of thumb: Five minutes daily beats an hour once a week.
Tip 5: Know When It’s Time to Call a Trainer
Some dogs need professional guidance.
🚩 Red flags:
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Pulling so hard it’s unsafe
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No progress after 4–6 weeks
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Reactivity or aggression on leash
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Multiple dogs amplifying each other’s pulling
✅ What to look for in a trainer:
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Certified (CCDT, KPA-CTP, CBCC-KA, etc.)
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Breed/size-specific experience
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Balanced training methods
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Transparent about process and pricing
🚫 Avoid trainers who:
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Promise “instant fixes”
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Refuse to explain methods
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Rely only on punishment
A good trainer will:
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Assess your dog’s unique behavior
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Create a custom training plan
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Teach you to become a better handler
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Stress-Free Walks
Leash pulling doesn’t have to ruin your walks. With the right equipment, clear timing, and consistent training, you can enjoy peaceful outings and strengthen your bond with your dog.
Key takeaways:
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Gear matters—choose wisely
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Reward calm behavior instantly
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Stay consistent across family members
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Keep sessions short and positive
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Seek help if progress stalls
Ready to Transform Your Walks?
👉 Explore Dawg-Tec’s trainer-approved harnesses and the revolutionary E-Harness—built to make leash training safer, smarter, and stress-free.
💡 Special Offer for Blog Readers: Use code CALMWALK for 15% off your first harness purchase.
Got questions about leash training? Share your story with us on Instagram @dawgtec or join our growing community of balanced training dog lovers.
