How to Stop Dog Lead Pulling
Walking your dog should be enjoyable – not a constant battle with them dragging you down the street. Lead pulling is one of the most common frustrations dog owners face, but the good news is it can be fixed.
At SLEDLINE, we design strong, durable dog leads for sled, mountain, and working breeds – dogs that are naturally powerful and often prone to pulling. This guide will give you practical steps to stop dog lead pulling, explain the best and worst types of leads and collars, and answer common questions.
Why Do Dogs Pull on the Lead?
Before solving the problem, it helps to understand why dogs pull:
Instinct – Puppies and untrained dogs aren’t used to restrictions. Feeling tension makes them push harder against it.
Owner habits – Retractable leads often teach dogs that pulling = more freedom.
Rewards – Dogs pull because it works. If pulling gets them to a smell, another dog, or the park, they’ll repeat the behaviour.
The aim is to reverse this: your dog should learn that a loose lead = moving forward, while pulling = no progress.
Step-by-Step Training to Stop Lead Pulling
1. Stand still first
Start by standing quietly with your dog on a fixed-length lead. The moment they look at you, praise and reward.
2. Reward loose lead walking
As you walk, reward them for staying close with a loose lead.
3. Stop immediately when they pull
If the lead tightens, stop moving. Stay still until your dog comes back to you. Only then start walking again.
4. Practise short sessions
Keep training sessions short and frequent – five to ten minutes a day works best.
5. Add distractions
Introduce toys or objects your dog wants. Teach them that staying on a loose lead is the only way they’ll reach them.
6. Make it fun
Encourage your dog with praise, treats, and your voice. Walking beside you should be the most rewarding option.
Best and Worst Leads for Dogs That Pull
Leads to Avoid
Retractable leads – encourage pulling and can break, creating safety risks.
Bungee leads – absorb shock but block your feedback, making training harder.
Recommended Leads
Fixed-length leads (4 ft to 6 ft) – soft, versatile, and ideal for training.
Chain leads – useful if your dog chews leads, but not for small dogs or halters.
Best Collars and Halters for Lead Training
Martingale collars
Tighten slightly without choking.
Prevent dogs slipping out.
Great for breeds with slim heads or escape artists.
Flat collars
Less effective than martingale but still work with consistent training.
Halters
Fit around the dog’s nose (like a horse halter).
Provide the most control – where the head goes, the body follows.
Best used alongside training to avoid constant pressure.
Harnesses
Rear-attaching harnesses usually make pulling worse.
Front-attaching harnesses can help but give less control than halters or collars.
Extra Training Tips
Use a clicker or marker word to reward the exact moment the lead goes slack.
Separate training sessions from normal walks by using different equipment.
Work on recall training too, so your dog can enjoy freedom off-lead.
FAQs About Dog Lead Pulling
Why does my dog pull so much on the lead?
Dogs pull because it works. If pulling gets them to what they want, they’ll keep doing it. Training teaches them the opposite – pulling slows things down, while walking nicely moves things forward.
How long does it take to train a dog to stop pulling?
It depends on consistency and your dog’s age or habits. With daily 5–10 minute sessions, many dogs show improvement within weeks.
What is the best lead to stop a dog pulling?
A fixed-length training lead between 4–6 ft combined with a martingale collar or halter is often the most effective setup.
Are harnesses good for stopping pulling?
Not usually. Rear-attaching harnesses encourage pulling. Front-attach harnesses are better, but collars and halters give more control.
Should I use a retractable lead for training?
No. Retractable leads reward pulling and are unsafe. A simple fixed-length lead works best.
FAQs About SLEDLINE
Who is SLEDLINE for?
SLEDLINE is built for sled, mountain, and working dog breeds – dogs with serious strength that need gear built for control and durability.
Where are SLEDLINE leads made?
Every SLEDLINE lead is handmade in the UK with strong, tested materials.
What makes SLEDLINE different?
Our leads are designed for control and strength. We focus on working breeds and build gear to handle the pulling power of Huskies, Malamutes, Shepherds, and other active dogs.
Can SLEDLINE leads help with pulling?
Yes – while no lead alone will “fix” pulling, our strong, comfortable designs give owners the control they need to train effectively using the methods above.
Final Thoughts
Stopping lead pulling takes patience and consistency – but it’s worth it. The right training and equipment make walking safer and more enjoyable for both you and your dog.
At SLEDLINE we create gear that’s built to last and made for dogs with power. Pair our leads with the training steps above, and you’ll have a dog that walks calmly by your side – not one dragging you down the street.
