Why Dogs Pull on the Leash
Before you can fix pulling, it helps to understand why dogs do it. Dogs pull because:
- The world is exciting and they want to explore it NOW
- Walking at human pace feels unnaturally slow to them
- Pulling has been accidentally rewarded (they pull, they get where they want to go)
- They haven't been taught an alternative behavior
Pulling isn't dominance or bad behavior—it's natural dog behavior that needs to be redirected.
Essential Equipment
The right gear makes leash training much easier:
Front-Clip Harnesses
For dogs that pull, a front-clip harness is often the best choice. When the leash attaches at the chest, pulling causes the dog to turn toward you instead of powering forward. This makes pulling self-defeating.
Look for a harness that fits snugly without rubbing and has adjustable straps for a custom fit. Popular options designed for pulling dogs include the Balance Harness and similar front-attach styles.