Taking your dog for a walk should be a relaxing and enjoyable experience for both of you, but if your furry friend pulls on the leash, it can turn into a stressful and exhausting battle of wills. Fortunately, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can transform your leash-pulling pooch into the perfect walking partner. Here are some easy-to-follow tips for leash training your dog, so you can both look forward to peaceful and enjoyable walks together.

The first step to successful leash training is choosing the right equipment. Opt for a well-fitting harness instead of attaching the leash to your dog’s collar. A harness distributes pressure evenly across your dog’s body, reducing strain on their neck and providing better control. There are various types of harnesses available, such as front-clip or back-clip harnesses, so do some research to determine which style would be most comfortable and effective for your dog’s size and breed.

Begin by allowing your dog to get comfortable with the harness or leash. Let them explore and sniff it, offering treats and praise to create a positive association. Start practicing leash manners indoors or in a familiar, low-distraction environment. This allows your dog to focus on you and the task at hand without the added challenge of exciting sights, sounds, and smells. Begin by simply rewarding your dog for staying close and following you, gradually introducing leash cues and commands.

One of the most effective tools in your leash-training arsenal is treats—small, tasty rewards that your dog loves. Use treats to reinforce good walking behavior, such as staying by your side or responding to leash cues. For example, if your dog is walking nicely without pulling, say “yes” or a clicker to mark the behavior, then offer a treat at their nose level to redirect their focus toward you. Over time, your dog will learn that walking nicely results in delicious treats, and they’ll be more inclined to repeat this behavior.