Teaching Your Dog Loose Lead Walking
Loose lead walking is an essential skill for any dog and their owner. It makes walks more enjoyable, reduces strain on both you and your furry friend, and strengthens the bond you share. At Wags & Wiggles, we believe every dog deserves to explore the world comfortably and safely. Here’s our step-by-step guide to teaching your dog how to walk nicely on a lead.
Why Loose Lead Walking Matters
Pulling on the lead isn’t just frustrating for you—it can also be harmful to your dog. Constant pulling may strain their neck, particularly if they wear a standard collar. Teaching loose lead walking promotes better behaviour and ensures your outings are stress-free.
What You’ll Need
To get started, gather the following essentials:
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A high-quality slip lead, like the Wags & Wiggles Slip Lead, which doubles as a figure-of-8 halter for better control. Click here to view our recommended lead.
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Treats or a favourite toy for positive reinforcement.
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Patience and consistency—two key ingredients for any training session
Step-by-Step Training Guide
Step 1: Create the Right Environment
Start in a quiet, low-distraction area such as your garden or a quiet park. This helps your dog focus on learning without overwhelming them.
Step 2: Introduce the Lead
Let your dog get comfortable with their lead. If you’re using our slip lead, ensure it’s properly fitted with the leather stopper in place to prevent choking.
Step 3: Use Positive Reinforcement
Hold the lead loosely and encourage your dog to walk beside you. Whenever they do so without pulling, immediately reward them with a treat or praise. Use a cheerful tone to keep your dog engaged.
Step 4: Stop When They Pull
If your dog begins to pull, stop walking. Stand still and wait until the lead slackens. This teaches them that pulling won’t get them anywhere. Once they return to your side, reward them and continue walking.
Step 5: Practise Turns and Stops
Practice making turns and sudden stops to keep your dog attentive. Use commands like “walk on” or “with me” to signal movement. This helps your dog understand they need to follow your lead.
Step 6: Gradually Add Distractions
Once your dog is confident walking on a loose lead in a quiet environment, introduce more distractions. Go to busier parks or streets and continue reinforcing good behaviour with treats and praise.
Common Challenges and Tips
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Pulling Towards Distractions: If your dog is drawn to something exciting, redirect their attention with a treat or toy.
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Lagging Behind: Use an upbeat tone to encourage them to catch up. Reward them for walking beside you.
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Inconsistent Progress: Training takes time. Keep sessions short and frequent to avoid overwhelming your dog.
Why Choose Wags & Wiggles Slip Leads?
Our slip leads are designed with both comfort and control in mind. Made from durable 14mm nylon and equipped with an anti-choke ring, they’re perfect for training sessions and everyday walks. Available in three sizes and two classic colours, they’re a practical choice for any dog owner.
Final Thoughts
Loose lead walking is a skill that requires patience and persistence, but the rewards are well worth the effort. A dog that walks calmly beside you makes every outing more enjoyable. Remember to celebrate small victories and keep training fun for both you and your pup.
Explore our range of slip leads and other training essentials at Wags & Wiggles, and start your journey to stress-free walks today!