Why dogs pull (and why it's not "dominance")

• Opposition reflex: if there is a shot coming from the front, the dog will counter-shot.
• Involuntary reinforcement: pulling has already "paid off" (reaching a smell / a fellow member).
• Overstimulation: city, bikes, noises… impossible to concentrate without progression.
• Inappropriate equipment: coercive collars = pain → stress → more traction.
• Lack of clarity: without stable rules, the dog doesn't know what to do to succeed.

Key takeaway: you don't "break" a behavior; you teach an alternative that pays off better: the loose leash .

Recommended equipment (safety, comfort, efficiency)

1. Anti-pull harness ( front and back attachments)
   Redirects the body without pain. Adjustment: shoulders free, sternal strap horizontal, snug contact without friction.
2. Cushioned leash 1.5–2 m
   It limits jolts, protects your joints and the dog's chest.
3. High-value treats (+ clicker if desired)
   Quick and precise reward for micro-successes.
4. Useful accessories : treat pouch, water bottle, lamp, bags, leash in the safe zone.

👉 No-pull harnesses · Shock-absorbing leashes · Water bottles & fountains · Walking accessories

The 4-principle method

• Differential reinforcement: rewarding a relaxed leash (not pulling).
• Access control: if there is pulling → we stop ; if left relaxed → we go again .
• Clarity & consistency: same rules, words, gestures at every outing.
• Gradual approach: we increase one variable at a time (location, duration, distractions).

Step-by-step protocol (from garden to city)

Step 1 — Positively associate the harness (J1–J2)

• Introduce the harness, reward the calm approach.
• Put it on gently, test "two fingers" under the straps.
• 5–10 steps indoors/indoors; mark Yes! and reward as soon as the leash hangs.
• 3 short sessions (3–5 min) / day.

Step 2 — The “stop-statue” (Days 3–4)

• As soon as the leash becomes taut → total immobility.
• Wait for a brief lull → mark and calmly resume.
• 2 training walks (10–15 min) on quiet sidewalk.

Step 3 — The U-turn (educational U-turn) (Days 5–6)

• If the tension persists despite the stop → smooth U-turn, cheerful voice, reward when the dog follows.
• Return to the target only if the leash remains slack.

Step 4 — The reward window (Day 7+)

• Reward every 1–2 seconds of leash hanging (on the chosen knee to position).
• Gradually space out the treats once the calm walk is established.
• Add a verbal cue ("Calm") just before moving forward.

Managing intersections & distractions

• Body fan: move around in an arc to avoid close face-to-face encounters.
• Look at you: before the crossing, say "Look!" → reward.
• Comfort distance: increase the distance if the dog tenses up.
• Next: reinforce the leash tension, get back into the rhythm.

Special cases

Puppy

Very short and positive sessions, quiet locations, frequent rewards.

Very energetic dog

Controlled discharge (play/flair) 5–10 min before walking exercise.

Reactive dog

Remote work + counter-conditioning. If needed, consult a positive educator.

Severe weather / dense urban area

Opt for off-peak hours and open spaces; shorten your time if stress levels rise.

Mistakes to avoid

• Move forward when there is a pull (strengthens the pull).
• Punishing / getting angry (increases stress, blurs the rules).
• Use of coercive equipment (risks + negative associations).
• Being inconsistent (changing rules = slowed learning).

Measure your progress (stay motivated)

Monitor your indicators:

• Leash dangling (number of times the leash dangles > 2 s / 10 min).
• Stops & U-turns (objective: gradual decline).
• 5-minute sets of relaxation (recurring objective).

Date | Location | Duration | Pendants | Stops | U-turns | Distractions | Comments

Quick FAQ

How long does it take to see an improvement?

Often from the ^1st week; consolidation in 2–6 weeks depending on regularity and context.

Is the harness enough?

No: it protects and facilitates, but the method (stop, U-turn, reinforcement) is essential.

Should we reward them for life?

We gradually space out the rewards, but we keep them varied to maintain motivation.

Is the tether useful?

Yes, in a safe area to unwind mentally; also practice walking on a dedicated leash.