Why Dogs Pull On Leads:
There are several reasons dogs develop this habit:
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Excitement and curiosity – Dogs are eager to explore the world around them.
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Unintentional rewards – Pulling often works. If moving forward gets them to what they want, the behaviour is reinforced.
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Breed traits – High-energy or working breeds (such as Huskies, Spaniels, and Labradors) are naturally inclined to move quickly.
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Lack of early training – Loose-lead walking is a skill that needs to be taught, not something dogs do instinctively.
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Inconsistent handling – If pulling is sometimes allowed and sometimes corrected, the dog becomes confused.
The Good News:
Lead pulling is very common, but it’s also very fixable with the right training methods, consistency, and equipment. A well-trained dog that walks calmly by your side makes daily walks safer, more enjoyable, and far less stressful for both of you.
At Lead and Learn we use positive, reward-based methods to teach your dog how to walk calmly on the lead. Our training focuses on:
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Building focus and engagement – teaching your dog to pay attention to you, not just the environment.
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Clear communication – helping your dog understand what you want through consistent cues.
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The right equipment – guiding you on harnesses and leads that support loose-lead training.
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Step-by-step practice – breaking the training down into easy, manageable stages so your dog succeeds.
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Real-world training – practicing in everyday environments to ensure your dog can walk nicely no matter the distractions.
With patience, consistency, and the right approach, lead pulling can be transformed into calm, enjoyable walks that strengthen your bond with your dog.
Ready to enjoy stress-free walks?
Contact us today to book a consultation and take the first step towards better walks with your dog!
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The Problem With Lead Pulling:
Lead pulling is one of the most common challenges dog owners face. Instead of enjoying a calm walk, many owners find themselves being dragged along by their dogs.
This can turn what should be a relaxing activity into a stressful and frustrating experience. In some cases, it can even cause injuries to both the dog (neck strain) and the owner (arm, shoulder, or back pain).
