Start where your dog can succeed
Practise indoors or in a quiet outdoor space before asking for focus on a busy sidewalk. High-distraction environments make learning harder, particularly for puppies and adolescent dogs.
Reward the position you want
Reward your dog when the leash is slack and they are walking near you. Use small, frequent rewards at first so the desired behaviour becomes clear.
Stop rehearsing pulling
If your dog surges forward, pause or calmly change direction instead of continuing to be pulled toward the destination. Reward when your dog reconnects with you.
Add distractions gradually
Work up from a quiet path to busier parks and sidewalks. Increase difficulty in small steps and give your dog enough space from triggers to stay engaged.
Practise in short blocks
A few focused minutes can be more productive than one long, frustrating walk. Alternate training with opportunities to sniff and decompress.
Know when you need an individual plan
Strong reactivity, fear or persistent pulling may require a tailored behaviour plan. Equipment alone does not replace teaching, management and consistency.