Does your dog pull on the leash when you walk it?

This is a really common problem that can be annoying for owners. After all, walking your dog should be enjoyable…but it’s no fun walking a dog when it seems like they are trying to drag you along the sidewalk after them.

Fortunately, there’s a really clever solution to this problem that can stop your dog from pulling on the leash—and it usually works in about 15 minutes flat.

Why Do Dogs Pull on the Leash?

First, it can help to understand a few of the different reasons why dogs pull on the leash:

• Because it gets them where they’re trying to go! Dogs get excited and want to explore, and they quickly learn if they pull on the leash, it lets them go where they want.
• Because they’re faster than we are! And if they pull on the leash, it gets them there faster.
• Because they’re untrained! And they don’t know any better. (At least, not yet.)

Luckily, you CAN train dogs to stop engaging in this annoying behavior. Here’s a quick and easy tip to try out the next time you take your dog for a walk:

Change Direction Every Time Your Dog Pulls

This tip is so simple, it might seem like it couldn’t possibly work…but it does! Just follow this advice and you can create long-lasting change in your dog’s behavior in just 10-20 minutes flat.

Yes, it even works for hyper dogs that pull on the leash non-stop.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1) Walk your dog as normal.

Step 2) Anytime they start to pull, instantly pivot and start walking in the opposite direction. Do it fast enough that it jerks the dog around.

Step 3) Repeat this process every time your dog pulls.

And that’s it!

It sounds so simple that it seems like it couldn’t possibly be effective…but you’ll be amazed by how well this trick works.

How Does It Work?

Basically it just trains your dog to avoid that sensation of having the collar tug against their neck, because they begin to associate that feeling with being jerked around in the opposite direction. It throws off the dog’s desire to be in the lead.

You might look a little strange changing directions in the neighborhood, but not to worry—for a lot of people, all it takes is 1 trip around the block using this technique to make their dog stop pulling.

That’s all it takes to turn walking the dog into a much more pleasant experience.

Just remember, as with any behavior training technique, it’s all about consistency. Make the commitment to do this technique every time your dog pulls, and you CAN create a lasting change in your dog’s behavior that will make all your walks more enjoyable for you.

(And this will probably lead to more walks for the dog, which will improve their quality of life too!)

The Right Accessories Can Help

If pulling is a problem for your dog, try using a pinch collar or a no-pull collar that will make it physically uncomfortable for your dog to pull. It doesn’t always work, but it can help to discourage this unwanted behavior.

While You’re At It, Reward Your Dog With a Tasty Treat from Bully Max

To make your walks even more enjoyable, grab a bag of our Bully Max Soft Chews, Classic Premium Chicken Dog Treats , or Classic Premium Beef Dog Treats. These tasty treats are perfect for a long walk, and a great way to reward your dog for their new behavior. It can also help stave off hunger in case they start to get “hangry” halfway through a walk. :)

Bonus leash training tips: