How to Train Your Puppy to Stop Pulling on the Lead

Training your new puppy to walk nicely on the lead is essential to building a strong and joyful bond during walks. Early and consistent training helps prevent pulling, which can become a frustrating habit if left unaddressed. This complete guide will walk you through step-by-step to prepare and teach your puppy to walk calmly by your side.

1. Get the Right Equipment for Comfort and Control

Choose a well-fitting harness rather than a collar to avoid strain on your puppy’s neck, especially during training. A harness distributes pressure more evenly and is kinder for hesitant or boisterous puppies.

Opt for a standard leash about four to six feet long for good control without making your puppy feel overly restricted. Avoid extendable leads for training as they encourage pulling and sudden lunging.

Before heading outside, let your puppy wear the harness and leash indoors to get accustomed to the new sensation in a relaxed environment.

2. Introduce Your Puppy Gradually to the Lead

When you first bring your puppy home, put on a lightweight collar with identification and let them get used to it. Then slowly introduce the harness and leash. Allow your puppy to sniff and explore the lead, occasionally attaching it without immediate walking, so they associate it with calm situations rather than just exercise.

Encourage your puppy to sit when you prepare the lead, reinforcing calm behaviour from the start.

3. Teach Basic Commands and Loose Lead Walking Indoors

Practice commands like "Sit" and "Stay" inside the home where there are fewer distractions. Start with the “Heel” command – teaching your puppy to walk beside you on a loose lead.

Use treats generously as rewards for your puppy walking with a slack lead and looking to you for guidance. Keep sessions short and positive to maintain interest.

4. Start Training Outdoors in Low-Distraction Areas

Begin actual walks in quiet spots where your puppy isn’t overwhelmed by noise, people, or other dogs. Let your puppy explore briefly but call them back frequently to practice walking beside you at your pace.

Walking in a straight line on your preferred side with treats and praise helps build good habits before adding complexity.

5. Nipping Lead Pulling in the Bud

It’s normal for a young puppy to pull when curious about new smells and sights. At the first sign of pulling, calmly stop moving and stand relaxed. Avoid yanking or physically forcing your puppy back, which can worsen pulling behaviours.

Use a gentle call of “heel” and slightly take up slack on the lead to reinforce the command rather than physical force.

6. Reward Desired Behaviour and Manage Energy

Watch for moments when your puppy walks beside you voluntarily with a loose lead, and immediately offer praise and a treat. Positive reinforcement strengthens good habits and helps your puppy understand what behaviours are expected.

Allow some play before walks to expend excess energy but also sometimes use longer leashes in secure places to let your puppy sniff and explore freely. This balance supports calmness on shorter, controlled walks.

7. Be Consistent, Patient, and Keep Training Enjoyable

Regular short training sessions are key to success. Expect some frustration from repeated stops and starts as your puppy masters walking without pulling—especially in the early weeks.

Keep calm and positive, and remember each well-behaved step builds your puppy’s confidence and social skills. Avoid rushing progress; consistency will pay off with hassle-free walks for years to come.

8. Troubleshooting Common Pulling Issues

If your puppy crosses in front of you while walking, use your body to gently block the path and encourage walking beside you. If they lag behind, use encouraging tones and treats to motivate them forward.

Should your puppy become overly excited or start playing with the lead, calmly stop walking and wait until they settle before continuing. This ensures your puppy associates walking with calm and attentiveness.

By following these expert steps, you’ll foster responsible lead walking habits and deepen your bond through happy outdoor adventures with your puppy.

For responsible puppy acquisition, always choose reputable breeders or consider adoption to find a new friend while supporting ethical ownership. Starting your puppy’s life with positive training and care is the foundation of a happy, healthy future together.