How to Stop Leash Pulling

A calm walk changes everything.

It’s not just about getting from point A to point B — it’s about the relationship and the energy you bring to the leash. Think of the leash as an extension of your body. The dog feels any and all tension you have on the other end of the leash. After 10 years working with owners, the number one sentence I’ve repeated by far is, “Relax your arm”, in reference to the owner holding the leash too tight (or with tension).

When we shift the walk to calm, steady, and confident… everything softens.

Here’s how to do that — without frustration.

Why Dogs Pull

Dogs pull because:

• They’re excited

• They’re overstimulated by the outdoors

• They’re moving at their natural pace (which is faster than ours)

• They don’t yet know who is setting the pace

This isn’t misbehavior.

It’s momentum.

So instead of correcting the pulling per se, we change the state of mind behind the walk.

Before You Walk: Set the Tone Inside

The walk starts before you leave the house.

Your dog should be:

• Calm

• Still

• Attentive on YOU

If your dog is spinning, whining, or vibrating with excitement while you reach for the leash, the walk has already started in the wrong energy.

Pause.

Stand.

Wait for stillness.

Then clip the leash.

This is leadership delivered quietly but efficiently.

The biggest mistake I see owners make is asking the dog if they want to go for a walk. I know it sounds silly, but have you ever found yourself saying to your dog, “Do you want to go for a walk?!” Or “Who’s ready for a walkie-poo?!” This is the first step in over-excitement for your dog— a silent killer to your walk.

Instead of getting your dog all excited to go for a walk, try silently walking over to the leash. If they immediately get excited (a learned behavior) stop and stand still. This will absolutely feel strange at first. Your dog will probably also look up at you very confused. Because this is something new. If we (unintentionally) trained our dog to get excited for a walk. We can (intentionally) train them to be calm for a walk.

The Calm Dog Walking Position (or the Structured Walk)

Your dog walks:

• Beside you, not out front

• Loose leash

• The snout is your focal point. The tip of their nose should be even with your leg, not out in front of it.

Not because you’re controlling them — but because you are setting the pace.

Think of it as:

• You lead.

• Your dog relaxes into your lead and follows.

Your Walking Cue: Slow. Steady. Breathe. And most importantly, Relax Your Arm.

The calmer you are, the calmer your dog will be.

Walk slower than you think.

Breathe deeper than you need.

Shoulders relaxed.

Arm relaxed and down by your side.

Your dog mirrors you.

If Your Dog Pulls — Do This

Don’t get frustrated.

Don’t talk a lot.

Don’t stop.

Using the leash, give information to get the dog’s attention.

This may look like a soft pop back, or inwards towards your leg if they’re really distracted.

You can also use a verbal cue to get their attention. I usually use the “eh-eh” sound coupled with some leash guidance.

If they’re really going for it, stop for a moment and switch directions. Yes, literally turn the other way, give leash guidance, and walk the opposite direction for a few steps, then turn back toward where you were originally heading and continue your walk.

We simply have to remind the dog that their attention should be on us and where we are leading them. Not on every dog, squirrel, or mail carrier they see. It’s ok for them to observe those things, but we do not want those things overpowering our dog’s ability to focus.

And remember: The walk teaches the walk. So practice is key.

Tools That Support Calm Walking

(Not required — just helpful.)

1. A standard 5-6-foot leash

No flexi leashes — unless you are heading to an open space where you plan to work on recall.

2. A flat buckle collar for ID tags and a prong or slip lead for guidance the dog understands.

Simple and clean.

3. Your pace (the more excited the dog is, the slower you walk)

Your calm is the training tool.

Equipment helps — but it’s intentional leadership that sets the tone for success.

Common Mistake to Avoid

Rushing.

If you are rushing, your dog will rush.

The slower the walk → the calmer the mind → the softer the leash → the better the connection.

Real Results Look Like:

• A dog who checks in with you naturally

• A quiet, steady rhythm between you two

• A walk that feels peaceful instead of chaotic

This is what creates the calm dog presence people notice.

If You Want a Walk That Feels This Good Lets Work Together.

This is a major focus of our Day Training program.

We teach your dog how to:

• Slow their mind

• Match your pace

• Walk with presence

• Settle and follow your lead naturally

And we show you how to maintain these results.

Ready for leash walks that feel calm, connected, and enjoyable?

Book a complimentary phone consultation by clicking the Book Now button at the top of this page.