Why the city is difficult (and how to tame it)

In the city, stimuli accumulate: noises, smells, vehicles, pedestrians, other dogs, construction, changing weather… Dogs need stable rules , comfortable equipment , and a well-planned progression . The good news is that with a few simple and consistent exercises, urban walks can become a pleasant ritual.

• Objective #1: safety (dog under control, reliable equipment, anticipation).
• Objective #2: clarity of rules (relaxed leash = we move forward).
• Objective #3: emotional management (flair breaks, quiet zones, routine).

Equipment & urban security

• Y-shaped anti-traction harness ( front + back attachment) for pain-free redirection.
• Cushioned leash 1.5–2 m to absorb micro-stresses and protect your joints.
• Accessible treat pouch (quick reinforcement of good choices).
• LED light/adhesive + reflective elements for low light.
• Up-to-date tags/medal , waste bags, water bottle .

👉 See: No-pull harnesses · Shock-absorbing leashes · Pouches & lights

Preparing for the outing: checklist & routine

• Before : 3–5 min of “calm on mat” (breathing, rewards placed on the floor).
• Brief : 30–60 seconds of walking on a leash in the building/yard to validate a slack leash.
• The keyword “Calm” is used just before opening the door; the first slow step outside is rewarded.
• Hydration : bring a small water bottle if more than 20–30 min.

Choosing the right route (intelligent progression)

Increase one variable at a time (noise, density, duration, dog crossings, street furniture).

1. Level 1: quiet alleyways, wide sidewalks, off-peak hours.
2. Level 2: moderate avenues, some bikes/scooters, uncrowded park.
3. Level 3: Market/terrace at a distance, bus stops, busier pedestrian crossings.

Golden rule: if the dog tenses up more than 3 times in 1 minute, you're too high. Go back to the previous step in 24–48 hours.

Key methods: stop, U-turn, visual target & calm-down

1) Stop-statue

As soon as the leash becomes taut, freeze . Wait for a brief relaxation → “Yes!” → start again. In the city, this avoids “paying” for pulling.

2) U-turn (educational U-turn)

If the tension/attraction is strong (pigeon, smell, dog), make a smooth U-turn with a cheerful voice. Reward when the dog returns to you.

3) Visual target at the knee

Present your hand at knee level; dog touches your hand = treat. Repeat 5–10 times. In town, the target helps with quick re-engagement.

4) Miniature Calm-down

When stopped (red light, queue), give 2–3 treats on the ground spaced 2 seconds apart. The dog lowers its head, breathes, and learns to wait calmly.

Managing distractions (bikes, scooters, dogs, children)

• Bicycles/scooters : courtesy arc (you widen the trajectory), target at the knee , reward when the bicycle passes.
• Other dogs : maintain a comfortable distance. If the other dog is excited, use a U-turn and reinforce a loose leash.
• Children : anticipate. Put the dog on the other side of you, let it pass, reward polite ignorance.
• Sidewalk begging (food scraps): install “Leave” + hand targeting to pass without picking up.

Crossing intersections & densely populated areas

1. As you approach the crossing, slow down 3–5 m before and ask for a “sit” or “wait”.
2. Look at you 1 s → “Yes!” → cross at a constant pace, short but loose leash.
3. On the opposite sidewalk, a calm-down break (2 treats on the ground), then we set off again.

Choose wide crossings and quiet times of day at the beginning. Avoid tight corners where bikes/scooters appear.

Terraces, queues & buses: stay calm

Terrace

• Find a table on the edge , away from the direct passage.
• Place a mat (square blanket); reward the dog lying on it.
• Micro-dispersed rations (crumbs on the ground) every 20–30 seconds at the beginning to maintain calm.

Queue/vending machine

• Position “behind your leg” (dog sheltered from the flow); target at the knee for repositioning.

Bus/metro (if permitted)

• Practice empty (quiet platform), get on/off without rolling, then short off-peak journeys.

Weather, roadworks & unforeseen events

• Rain/slippery floors : microfiber towel , be careful on steps and metal plates.
• Work : contour in an arc, calm-down + treats on the ground to defuse occasional noises.
• Uncontrolled off-leash dogs : quick U-turn + distance + cheerful voice, do not block the leash.

Measure your progress (stay motivated)

• Pull-ups/10 min (goal: ↓ each week).
• Time spent on a loose leash (target: ↑ towards 70–80%).
• Emotional recovery (calm restored < 60 s after an event).

FAQ

How long does it take to see a difference?

Often, you'll see results as early as the ^first week if you do 4–5 short, consistent outings. Consolidation in high-intensity areas takes 3–6 weeks.

My dog ​​is very reactive to dogs/bikes…

Work on comfortable distance, target at knee, U-turn and calm-down. Progress slowly and consider a positive dog trainer if needed.

Do you need a leash in the city?

Prefer a 1.5–2 m leash. The long line is reserved for open and authorized parks, with great vigilance.