Loose Leash Walking – Walking with Each Other, Not Against Each Other

Many dog owners know the feeling: you just want to go for a calm walk, but your dog has other plans. They're pulling forward with enthusiasm, you’re holding the leash tight, maybe feeling frustrated while trying to keep control. Walking together can sometimes feel more like a tug-of-war than quality time.

Loose leash walking is one of the most common training goals – and for good reason. A dog who walks calmly on the leash makes walks more relaxed, safer, and much more enjoyable for both sides.

But: it’s not always as easy as it looks. And that’s okay.

Why Dogs Pull – And Why It Has Nothing to Do with Being "Stubborn"

Let’s start here: a dog who pulls isn’t being stubborn, disobedient, or “dominant.” More often, they’re simply doing what comes naturally – and haven’t yet learned how walking together actually works.

Here are a few common reasons why dogs pull:

• Curiosity: Everything smells exciting! Dogs experience the world mainly through their nose.

• Different pace: A dog’s natural walking speed is usually faster than ours.

• Frustration or stress: Some dogs are overstimulated, nervous, or impatient.

• Success through pulling: If pulling gets them where they want to go, it gets reinforced – even unintentionally.

• Lack of clear communication: If rules or expectations are inconsistent, dogs don’t know what we want from them.

  
  

Loose Leash Walking Is More Than “Not Pulling”

Many people think leash training means just one thing: “The dog shouldn’t pull.” But it’s so much more than that – it’s a dialogue.

• Who is leading whom?

• Who’s adjusting to whom?

• Are we walking together or just attached by a string?

A dog who walks nicely on a leash isn’t just “performing” a behavior – they’re making a choice to be in sync with you. That’s the real difference between control and connection.

What Often Doesn’t Help – And Why

Sadly, some common leash-training methods still rely on corrections, pressure, or startle tactics:

• Jerking the leash

• Verbal scolding

• Correction collars, chain collars, or similar tools

The issue? These techniques might interrupt the behavior in the short term, but they don’t solve the underlying cause. In the worst case, they create tension, confusion, or avoidance – but no real willingness to stay connected.

Trust is the better leash.

The Emotional Side – Also for You

Let’s not forget: leash walking isn’t just a technical issue. It’s emotional – for you too.

You might catch yourself thinking:

• “Everyone’s staring at us.”

• “Why does it work for everyone else but not us?”

• “I’ve already tried everything...”

All of these feelings are valid. Your dog is part of your everyday life – and your heart. If things don’t go well, it feels personal. That’s why it’s so important to be kind to yourself. Nobody starts perfect. Everyone struggles sometimes. And growth often begins when you ask: What does my dog really need – and what do I need?

Real-Life Tips for Easier Leash Walks

Here are some friendly, practical ideas to help improve your leash walking in a positive way:

1. Start with intention

Take a deep breath before each walk. Use a cue like “Let’s go” to begin mindfully instead of rushing out the door. Your energy sets the tone.

2. Clear body language

Dogs read our posture and pace more than we realize. Walk with confidence, pick a direction and stick with it – your dog will start to tune in.

3. Train in short bursts

Not every walk has to be a training session. Add focused exercises into your normal routine – e.g., 5 minutes of attention work, then time for sniffing and exploring.

4. Reward the good moments

Many people correct pulling, but forget to praise the good parts. When your dog checks in or the leash is loose – notice it, and let them know!

5. Plan sniff breaks

Loose leash walking doesn’t mean “walk in a straight line with military precision.” Let your dog stop and sniff – it’s their way of relaxing and gathering info.

What You Really Need: Time, Patience – and a Shared Language

Leash walking is not about gadgets or control – it’s about relationship. You are your dog’s guide, safety, and orientation – even outside, even when the world is exciting.

Don’t expect overnight miracles. Celebrate every little win. And remind yourself: you are a team. And that connection is what others should see when you walk by.

Conclusion: The goal isn’t perfection – it’s partnership.

You don’t need to walk in flawless sync every second. But you deserve to enjoy your time together – without tension, without tugging, without stress.