Learning how to appropriately walk your dog is one of the first stepping stones to a better relationship. Also, your dog needs an appropriate outlet for its physical and mental energy, and walking is one of the best ways to do this.
Walking also teaches the dog who is in charge—and if your dog is charging out ahead while tugging you along on the leash—it might not be you! A kind, calm, and confident pack leader helps all the members of the pack to feel safe and secure, and content in their roles.
Setting up for the Activity
When first training you and your dog to walk together effectively, it is best to practice where you can minimize distractions, such as in the house or backyard without other people, animals, or vehicles.
If you are not feeling kind, calm, and confident, do not train your dog until you are in a better mental state. Kindness is a choice, calmness takes practice, and confidence comes with education, which will grow as you master this activity.
Prepping the Leash
Make sure your dog is in a calm mental state first. Sometimes, getting your dog to settle in her crate first is a good way to get her ready to go.
Put on a simple slip leash. If your dog walks on your left, shape the leash into a “p” (as you are facing her) and slip it over her head. If your dog walks on your right, make a “q” as you face them. The leash will typically be on the side of the dog closest to you.
If done correctly, the leash should slip back to a loose loop when you give a quick tug and release, instead of remaining tight.
Position the leash high on the neck, close to the ears, so that it’s not choking your dog.
If your dog needs a little more guidance, loop the leash around the nose (positioned like a horse halter). You can also purchase a “gentle leader” leash that is designed to do the same thing. Our favorite is the Heather’s Heroes Sidekick. Your dog might struggle at first in this configuration, but if you are persistent, they will get used to this arrangement. Use this “halter” leash until she walks without pulling.
The leash should be short but loose—just long enough to cover the distance between your hand and your dog as she walks next to you.
Activity Steps
When you are ready to go outside, have your dog stop and sit at the door with its leash on.
When they are calm and obedient, open the door, step out ahead of them while they remain seated, and say, “Let’s go!”
As you walk, relax! Take big breaths, and let everything go. Your shoulders, arms, and hands should be relaxed, and hung loosely at your side.
Your dog should walk by your side, with no tension on the leash. They should not be out in front of you, but next to you, or slightly behind.
If they pull forward or to the side, give a quick tug and release on the leash. This is your signal to her that they need to correct their behavior. Repeat this until your dog walks politely beside you.
Start with shorter sessions, and try to always end on a positive note, rewarding her success with encouraging words of praise, and a little playtime when you have finished.
Training Over Time
The key here is that the owner is relaxed and calm. Your confidence that your dog can do this is important. If your dog senses that you are unsure or nervous, she will begin to question your ability to lead them.
Effective dog walking can be one of the most challenging things to master…for the owner. Dogs will catch on very quickly when their owner can grasp this. If you can’t get your dog to walk “loose-leash” beside you after repeated efforts, you and your dog probably need additional training.
As you dog gains a good grasp of this activity, add in distractions to help your dog succeed at higher and higher levels. Take them around other dogs or people, or out in public places. If they struggle in a new environment, return to their last situation of success, and practice at that level before taking them back to a new situation.
