Why dogs pull and how to address it, using two practical techniques that teach your dog a slack leash is what earns forward movement.
Dogs pull because it gets them to where they want to go. Every time you move forward with a tight leash, pulling is confirmed as the strategy that works. The fix starts with removing that reward completely, every single time.
The instant the leash goes taut, stop walking. No warning, no command. Stand still and wait. When the leash goes slack start walking again. Your dog learns that a tight leash ends all forward motion. A slack leash is what gets them moving.
When your dog is pulling hard toward something ahead, say their name to get their attention, then calmly turn and walk in the other direction. Keep the leash loose as you move. Reward your dog as soon as they're moving alongside you. This brings their attention back to you and away from whatever was driving the pull.
Most owners react to pulling but never mark the moments when the leash is loose. When you notice a natural curve in the leash, mark it and give your dog a treat. Reward every two or three steps of slack leash while you're working on this. You're building a clear picture of what earns them the walk — staying close.
Most dogs start responding to the stop-and-wait method within a few sessions, but early progress shows in calmer environments first. A walk that felt like constant tension will have more slack moments before it feels like a genuinely different experience. Keep sessions short and end them while things are going well. If your puppy pulls towards dogs, people or smells, see why does my puppy pull on the leash?.