How To Stop Your Dog Leash Pulling Everyone has a friend, family member, or opponent who walks their dog expertly with a leash in hand. They aren't being dragged down the street, attached to trees, or entangled in the leash of the pleasant neighbor's dog who is also for a stroll in the afternoon. I don't know about you, but I secretly envy anyone who can walk their pet beside them without getting tired. A leash-puller also runs the chance of unintentionally slipping out of your hold, which might endanger your pet in several ways if they continue to run—not to mention the risk to you if you land on the sidewalk face-first. Using good leash etiquette reduces the possibility that you will be stopped for pulling the leash too hard, and it also makes the time spent walking more enjoyable. Because it's more convenient and pleasurable for both of you when your dog walks well on a leash, you may take her more places and on longer walks. Following are Guidelines for Improved Walking Techniques 1. Start training early The best way to prevent your dog from pulling on its leash is to start training it at a young age. If you wait until your dog is older before starting training, it may not remember what you taught it earlier. You should begin teaching your dog basic commands such as sit, stay, down, and come. These commands will help your dog understand how to behave around people and other animals. 2. Be consistent If you want your dog to learn something, you need to make sure you’re consistent. When you first teach your dog a command, you should always use the same tone of voice and body language. Your dog will pick up on these cues and will know exactly what you mean if they hear them again. 3. Reward good behavior When your dog does something right, give him a treat or play with him. This will encourage him to repeat the behavior. If he doesn't do anything right, don't reward him. Instead, tell him no and ignore his actions. 4. Use positive reinforcement You should never punish your dog for doing something wrong. Punishment only teaches your dog bad behaviors. Instead, praise your dog whenever he does something right. Praise is much more effective than punishment. 5. Don’t let your dog get away with bad behavior It's okay to discipline your dog when he does something wrong. However, if you yell at your dog or hit him, he won't respect you. Instead, try using a firm hand signal or a verbal warning. If your dog continues to act out, then take him to obedience school or find someone who specializes in canine behavior. 6. Keep your dog safe Make sure your dog wears a collar and leash at all times. Also, keep your dog leashed while walking. If you have a long walk planned, put your dog in a crate or kennel. Make sure your dog is comfortable in his crate before taking him outside. 7. Avoid distractions Don't leave your dog unattended while you're working. Dogs tend to become distracted easily, especially if they're bored or excited. Try to avoid leaving your dog alone in a room where he can get into trouble.