How to stop your puppy from pulling on the lead

Walks are one of the highlights of a dog’s day. They get to sniff, explore, stretch their legs, and spend time with their favourite human. But if your puppy is constantly pulling on the lead, it can turn something joyful into a daily struggle. Training your puppy properly from the start sets you both up for years of bonding, fresh air, and shared adventure. 

Why do puppies pull on the lead?

Puppies pull on the lead for various reasons, and identifying the cause is the first step to correcting the behaviour. Here are some reasons puppies pull on their lead:

• Opposition reflex - Dogs have a natural ‘opposition reflex,’ meaning they instinctively pull against pressure. When they feel tension on the lead, they may pull harder, not understanding that it's counterproductive.
• Excess energy - A puppy with pent-up energy is more likely to pull on the lead. Ensuring they have adequate playtime and mental stimulation can help reduce this behaviour.
• Anxiety - Some puppies pull due to anxiety or overstimulation, especially in new environments. They might be trying to escape a situation or reach a perceived safe space.
• Because you've let them pull before - If your puppy has pulled on the lead and reached their desired destination, they've learned that pulling gets them what they want. This reinforcement makes the behaviour more likely to continue.
• Habits from retractable leads - Using retractable leads can inadvertently teach puppies that pulling extends their range. This inconsistent feedback can confuse them about acceptable lead behaviour.

How to train a puppy to walk on a leash

Training a puppy to walk on a lead without pulling is all about creating clear expectations and rewarding calm behaviour. Here are some tips on how to do it right. 

Start somewhere quiet

Start in a quiet, familiar environment such as your garden or a low-traffic path where distractions are minimal. This helps your puppy focus on you without feeling overwhelmed by sights, smells, and noises.

Before you begin walking, spend a few moments letting your puppy settle and engage with you. It can be good to have a pocket full of high-value treats ready—maybe something extra tasty that they don’t get all the time! Hold the lead loosely and encourage your puppy to come to your side. As soon as they’re beside you and the lead is slack, reward them with a treat and gentle praise. You’re marking the behaviour you want; calm walking next to you on a loose lead.

Begin walking slowly and casually. Every time your puppy checks in with you by glancing up, walking beside you, or even sitting calmly, mark it with a “yes” or click (if using a clicker), followed by a reward. This helps them associate walking near you with good things happening. Keep the energy light and upbeat. This is bonding time, not a drill!

How to stop your puppy pulling

If your puppy surges ahead and pulls, stop walking immediately. Stand still and avoid yanking back on the lead, as this can increase their natural urge to pull. Wait patiently until your puppy turns to see why the walk has stopped and returns to your side. The moment they do, reward them and resume walking. You may need to repeat this many times - consistency is key here! Over time, your puppy will learn that pulling gets them nowhere, but walking calmly keeps the fun going.

You can also practice changing direction frequently. When your puppy starts to pull, gently say their name, then turn and walk in the opposite direction. Praise them when they catch up and fall into step beside you. This keeps them mentally engaged and reinforces that paying attention to you is rewarding.

Remember to keep sessions short and fun

Keep training sessions short at first—five to ten minutes is enough for young puppies. Gradually increase the duration as their attention span improves. If they become overstimulated or tired, take a break and try again later. Walking on a lead is a skill that takes time and practice.

For more detailed training tips on everything from teaching your puppy to be handled to teaching your puppy to settle, see our guide on Teaching Your Puppy Life Skills.

How to train a puppy to walk on a lead: A quick recap

Here’s a short overview on lead training your furry friend:

• Start small – Train in quiet areas first to help your puppy focus.
• Reward good behaviour – Give treats and praise for walking calmly beside you.
• Stop the walk if they pull – This teaches that pulling gets them nowhere.
• Change direction often – Keeps them engaged and focused on you.
• Keep sessions short and fun – Gradually build up as your puppy learns.

Best lead for a dog that pulls

Choosing the right equipment can make a big difference. Front-clip harnesses can help redirect your puppy's attention towards you. Avoid retractable leads as they learn as they can encourage pulling. A standard 4 to 6-foot lead provides better control and consistency during training.

Loose leash puppy training

Loose leash training involves teaching your puppy to walk beside you without tension on the lead. Start by rewarding them for staying close and checking in with you. If they begin to pull, change direction or stop until they return to your side. Consistency is key to reinforcing this behaviour.

Top tips to stop your dog pulling

• Use positive reinforcement: Reward your puppy with treats and praise for walking beside you without pulling.
• Be consistent: Ensure all family members use the same commands and techniques to avoid confusing your puppy.
• Avoid retractable leads: They can encourage pulling by giving inconsistent feedback.
• Practice in low-distraction areas: Start training in quiet environments before progressing to busier areas.
• Incorporate playtime: Ensure your puppy has ample opportunity to burn off energy before walks.
• Change directions: If your puppy pulls, change direction to encourage them to pay attention to you.
• Use the right equipment: A front-clip harness can help discourage pulling by redirecting your puppy's movement.
• Keep training sessions short: Short, frequent sessions are more effective than long, infrequent ones.
• Stay patient: Training takes time and setbacks are normal. Stay calm and persistent.
• Make walks interesting: Vary your routes and allow your puppy to explore to keep them engaged. For some ideas here, see our guide on Making Dog Walks More Interesting.

Advice for pup parents

Overall, as with all things puppy training, stopping your dog from pulling on its lead can take time and patience. For more advice, whether its choosing the right chew toys for teething pups, mastering toilet training, or teaching your puppy to be comfortable alone, check out our range of guides for new puppy parents.

FAQs about how to stop a puppy pulling on its lead