Pulling works
Dogs pull because it gets them where they want to go, faster. Every time a dog pulls and moves forward, pulling is rewarded. Dogs also naturally walk faster than people and want to sniff. Loose-leash walking is a learned skill, not something dogs know by default.
The fix has two parts: make pulling stop working (forward movement only happens on a loose leash) and make being near you very rewarding. Avoid leash jerks: they are unpleasant, can injure the neck and often increase frustration and reactivity.
Key takeaways
- Pulling is rewarded by forward movement.
- Forward motion should only happen on a loose leash.
- Leash jerks are unpleasant and can injure; skip them.
Training session: Pulling audit
- Walk your usual route for 10 minutes.
- Count how many times the leash gets tight.
- Note what the dog pulls toward: smells, dogs, people.
- Write your top three triggers to work on.
Troubleshooting: If pulling is constant, start in your hallway or yard where there is less to pull toward.