Loose Lead Walking Training Methods

Everyone would like a dog that can walk nicely on a lead with them, rather than be dragged down the road! Have a read to find out two of my favourite methods to get started with teaching our dogs to walk with a loose lead

1. Drip Feeding

2. Change It Up

1. Drip Feeding

Drip Feeding Method

Starting with your dog close by, take 1 step and feed. Then, take 2 steps and feed. Then 3 steps and feed, and so forth, steadily increasing your steps between rewards. If at any point your dog rushes forwards, rewind and take it back to 1 step

Why do I like this method?

We are rewarding our dogs for doing what we would like, rather than waiting for them to pull and then try to correct this. This is perfect for puppies especially, as we can start in the house and garden before heading out on a walk to make sure you’re successful

2. Change It Up  

Change It Up Method

Set off walking with your dog, until they are pulling too hard. Stop, turn around and cue your dog to follow you - “this way!”. Make sure to praise them as they follow you. Continue walking until again the pulling is too much, and repeat this process. The more you practice this, the less turns you’ll need to take!

Why do I like this method?

It keeps the dogs moving, but also stops them getting into the habit of just pulling ahead to get to where they want to. Practicing turning direction without pulling can also help, and be good practice for moving away from other distractions

Have a go, and see how you do

Emma, Elmtree Dogs

BSc, MSc Animal Behaviour & Training, UK Sniffer Dogs Instructor