How to Stop a Dog Pulling on the Lead

If you’ve ever felt your shoulder yanked halfway down the street by an eager hound, you know the struggle.

A dog pulling on the lead turns a relaxing stroll into an arm workout and a test of patience.

The good news? You can teach your dog to walk nicely on the lead using a mix of methods, the right equipment, and some good old consistency.

Quick Answer: To stop your dog pulling on the lead, you’ll need to teach loose lead walking with rewards, patience, and the right gear. Use a sturdy harness or collar, reward your dog for slack in the lead, and stop moving when they pull. For dogs that pull with real power, prong collars used correctly can be a safe, effective way to stop pulling fast. Always match your methods to your dog’s breed, behaviour, and comfort.

Let’s dive into the details, step by step.

Why Dogs Pull on the Lead – And Why It’s Tough to Stop

Dogs pull because the world excites them. The smells, the sounds, the squirrels; your dog wants to get there first. For breeds with extra strength or energy, lead walking can feel like a tug-of-war every day.

From my experience, the biggest reasons dogs pull on the lead include:

• Excitement about going outdoors
• Lack of clear training or boundaries
• Using the wrong equipment to stop pulling
• Owners accidentally rewarding the pulling behaviour

If your dog pulls, it’s not stubbornness. It’s a learned habit, and you can break it.

Essential Equipment to Stop Dogs Pulling

Before you start training, set yourself up with the right tools. I’ve tried nearly every piece of equipment to stop pulling, and here’s what truly works for dogs that pull:

Collars vs Harnesses: What’s Best?

• Flat Collar: Good for dogs that already walk nicely, but not for heavy pullers.
• Harness: Distributes pressure across your dog’s body. A front-clip harness can discourage pulling better than a back-clip.
• Prong Collar: Controversial but effective for strong dogs when used properly. The prongs evenly distribute pressure around the dog’s neck, mimicking what another dog’s teeth would do. When fitted and used right, they do not harm or choke your dog. I’ve used prong collars with several large breeds and saw instant improvement, with no pain or fear.

Never use a choke chain or slip lead unless you know what you’re doing. These can cause real harm if misused.

List: My Go-To Equipment to Stop Pulling

• Well-fitted front-clip harness (like a Halti)
• Sturdy, comfortable lead (avoid retractable ones)
• Prong collar for powerful dogs or if other methods fail
• Training lead for early stages or garden practice
• Tasty treats for rewards
• Spare patience (and maybe a sense of humour)

Always attach the lead to the correct point on your harness or collar. Double check before every walk.

How to Teach Your Dog to Walk Nicely on the Lead

Teaching your dog to walk on a loose lead takes time. But with structure, rewards, and the right routine, you’ll get there. Here’s my proven step-by-step approach:

Start in the Garden

Begin where there are fewer distractions. Attach the lead, arm yourself with treats, and start walking calmly around the garden. Whenever your dog keeps the lead slack, reward them. If your dog pulls, stop walking immediately.

Only move forward when the lead is loose. This teaches your dog pulling gets them nowhere.

Step-by-Step Lead Walking Method

1. Attach the lead and get your dog’s attention.
2. Pick a side for your dog to walk on, and keep it the same every time.
3. Walk a few steps. If the lead tightens, stop in your tracks.
4. Wait for your dog to return to your side or loosen the tension.
5. Reward with a treat and praise when the lead is slack.
6. Repeat. If your dog pulls on the lead again, stop and wait.

This method is slow at first, but it works. Consistency is key.

Use Rewards Wisely

I always keep tasty treats ready. Every time my dog walks nicely on the lead by my side, out comes a treat and lots of praise. You can use toys or a cheerful “yes!” if your dog prefers.

Reward small wins, especially in the early stages. The more your dog succeeds, the faster the habit forms.

What If Your Dog Pulls Hard?

Some dogs (think Huskies, Bullies, or any breed bred for strength) turn walks into a test of endurance. If your dog pulls so hard you feel you need special gear, try a prong collar or front-clip harness.

A prong collar, when fitted and used correctly, gives instant feedback without causing pain. I’ve had stubborn pullers learn to walk on a loose lead within minutes using this piece of equipment.

Don’t be afraid to use what works best for your dog, as long as it’s safe and comfortable.

Tips for Success With Dogs That Pull

Stopping your dog pulling takes patience, structure, and the right mindset. Here are my top tips to get your dog to stop tugging and start walking nicely:

• Always start training when your dog is calm, not hyped up.
• Walk away in the opposite direction if your dog pulls ahead. This gets their attention fast.
• Gradually build up the challenge. Start in the garden, then try quiet streets, then busier areas.
• Don’t let your dog become frustrated. End sessions before you both lose patience.
• If your dog becomes reactive to distractions, increase distance or distract with a treat.
• Keep your pace steady. Encourage your dog with a happy tone and rewards.
• Use praise enthusiastically when your dog makes progress.
• If you feel stuck, seek help from a professional in dog training.

Making Lead Walking Fun

Walking nicely isn’t just about rules, it’s about connection. When I take my dogs out, I see it as bonding time. I bring treats, use a cheerful voice, and let them sniff when they’re walking nicely on the lead.

Turn walks into a game. Your dog will pick up on your energy and enthusiasm.

If your dog gets distracted, bring them back to your side with a treat or toy. Give your dog plenty of breaks to sniff and relax, as long as they’re not pulling.

Common Mistakes That Keep Dogs Pulling on the Lead

I’ve made every mistake in the book. Here are the biggest traps to avoid if you want to stop your dog pulling:

• Letting your dog pull “just this once” to get to the park or another dog
• Using a flimsy dog lead or collar that can’t handle your breed’s strength
• Failing to reward good behaviour consistently
• Not teaching your dog what you want, instead, just reacting to the pulling
• Using equipment incorrectly, like attaching the lead to the wrong ring

If your dog pulls and reaches their goal, they’ll keep pulling. Consistency is everything.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs That Pull

Why does my dog pull on the lead even after training?
Sometimes, excitement or lack of consistency resets their behaviour. Go back to basics, reward good lead walking, and use your equipment to stop pulling as needed.

Is it fair to use a prong collar?
Yes, when fitted and used properly. Prong collars are designed to be safer and more comfortable than choke chains. I use them for strong dogs that pull and have found that they quickly learn to walk nicely.

How long does it take to stop dogs pulling?
Every dog is different. Some stop pulling quickly with the right approach, while others take weeks. Patience and routine matter more than speed.

The Bottom Line: Stop Your Dog Pulling for Good

Teaching your dog to walk nicely on the lead is a journey worth taking. Use the right equipment to stop dogs pulling, reward progress, and don’t be afraid to use tools like prong collars for stubborn cases.

Every dog, no matter the breed or size, can learn to walk on a loose lead.

The key? Structure, consistency, and a sense of adventure. Your walks will become calmer, more enjoyable, and a true highlight of your day for both you and your dog.