How to stop your dog from pulling on the leash

Leash pulling is one of the most common frustrations dog owners tell us about. The good news: it is almost always a training gap, not a stubborn dog. With a few minutes of practice each day, most dogs learn to walk politely within a couple of weeks.

Start indoors where there are few distractions. Reward your dog the moment the leash is loose and there is slack in the line. If your dog surges ahead, simply stop walking and wait. The instant they ease off, mark it with a cheerful "yes" and continue.

Consistency matters more than intensity. Short, frequent sessions beat long, frustrating walks. As your dog gets the hang of it indoors, gradually add distractions: the backyard, then a quiet street, then the busy park.

Every Dog Training At Home plan includes a daily loose-leash checklist tailored to your dog's age and energy level, so you always know exactly what to practice next.