Master the Lead Walk: Expert Tips for Stress-Free Strolls

There’s nothing quite like a walk through the countryside, but if your dog is constantly pulling or lunging, "peaceful" is the last word you’d use to describe it.

Leash training is one of the most common challenges we help owners with at Woof Company. Whether you’re navigating country lanes or a busy street, here is how to get your dog walking by your side without the struggle.

1. Ditch the Retractable Lead

   While they seem convenient, retractable leads actually teach your dog that pulling results in more freedom. For training, we recommend a fixed-length lead and a well-fitted harness. If you aren't sure which one is right for your breed, pop into My Pet Barn, we stock the exact gear we use in our training sessions and can help you with a fitting.
   

2. Start in a "Zero-Distraction" Zone

   Trying to teach a dog to walk on a lead in a park full of squirrels is like trying to learn maths at a rock concert. You need a controlled environment. This is why our secure field hire in Linford is such a game-changer. It allows you to practice leash skills in a safe, enclosed space where your dog can actually focus on you before you "graduate" to the real world.
   

3. Reward the "Check-In"

   Training is about communication. Every time your dog looks back at you or keeps the lead slack, reward them! We find that natural, high-value treats work best to keep a dog's attention when the world around them is exciting.
   

4. Be a "Tree"

   If your dog pulls, the walk stops. By becoming a "tree" and standing still, you teach your dog that pulling gets them nowhere. Only move forward when the lead goes slack. It takes patience, but it’s the most effective way to change the habit.
   

5. Seek Professional Support

   Sometimes, leash pulling is linked to over-excitement or anxiety. If you’re struggling to make progress on your own, a 1-to-1 session can help us identify exactly why your dog is pulling and give you a tailored plan to fix it.

   
   

   Consistency is Key

   Whether your dog is with you, or staying with us for daycare or boarding, consistency in their training makes all the difference. At Woof Company, we’re here to support you from the first "sit" to the perfect "heel."