Simple training tips + the best no pull dog harness advice
If walking your dog feels more like being dragged down the street than enjoying a relaxing stroll, you’re not alone. One of the most common challenges for dog owners in Australia is figuring out how to stop a dog pulling on the lead.
The good news? Pulling is a normal behaviour — and with the right training, consistency, and the right gear (like a no pull dog harness), you can turn stressful walks into calm, enjoyable adventures.
In this guide, you’ll learn why dogs pull, what not to do, and the most effective ways to teach loose lead walking.
Why Do Dogs Pull on the Lead?
Dogs don’t pull because they’re “naughty” — they pull because it works.
Common reasons dogs pull:
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Excitement (they want to get to smells, people, dogs, parks)
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They walk faster than humans naturally
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They’ve learned pulling gets them where they want to go
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Lack of training or consistency
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Anxiety or reactivity (they feel overwhelmed)
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Too much energy (especially young dogs)
Understanding the “why” makes it much easier to fix.
The #1 Rule: Stop Rewarding Pulling
This is the most important thing to understand:
✅ If your dog pulls and you keep walking, you are rewarding pulling.
Dogs learn fast. If pulling = forward movement, they’ll keep doing it.
The goal is to teach:
Loose lead = we move forward
Tight lead = we stop
Step-by-Step: How to Stop Your Dog Pulling on the Lead
1. Use the “Stop & Stand Still” Method
When your dog pulls:
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Stop walking
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Stand still like a tree
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Wait for the lead to loosen
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The moment it loosens, reward and continue walking
This teaches your dog that pulling gets them nowhere.
Best for: Dogs who pull constantly and don’t respond to gentle corrections.
2. Try the “Turn Around” Method (Change Direction)
If your dog pulls ahead, calmly turn and walk the other way.
This helps because:
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Your dog learns to watch you
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Pulling doesn’t lead to their destination
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It reduces “tunnel vision” excitement
Tip: Don’t yank — just turn and walk with confidence.
3. Reward the Position You Want
Most dogs need to be taught exactly where you want them to walk.
Reward when your dog is:
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Walking beside you
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Looking at you
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Walking with a loose lead
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Checking in naturally
Use small, high-value treats (chicken, cheese, training treats).
Pro tip: Reward frequently at first — every few steps is fine.
4. Teach a “Let’s Go” Cue
A simple walking cue helps reset your dog’s focus.
Say “Let’s go!” in a cheerful tone and start moving.
Reward as soon as your dog matches your pace.
This becomes a powerful habit-builder.
5. Practise in Low-Distraction Areas First
Trying to train loose lead walking at a busy dog park is like trying to learn to drive on a Formula 1 track.
Start in:
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Your driveway
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Your quiet street
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A calm park
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Your backyard
Then build up to more exciting environments.
6. Give Your Dog a Sniff Break (Sniffing = Calm Brain)
Dogs experience the world through smell. Sniffing is mentally enriching and helps reduce pulling.
Try this routine:
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Walk nicely for 30 seconds
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Reward
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Then say “Go sniff!” and allow a short sniff break
This balances training with fun.
What NOT to Do (Common Mistakes)
Here are a few things that often make pulling worse:
❌ Yanking the lead (creates frustration and can cause injury)
❌ Using punishment-based tools incorrectly
❌ Walking faster when your dog pulls
❌ Being inconsistent (sometimes allowing pulling, sometimes not)
❌ Expecting instant results (walking manners take time)
Consistency wins every time.
The Best Gear to Stop Pulling: No Pull Dog Harness
If your dog pulls, the right gear makes training easier (and safer).
A no pull dog harness is designed to give you better control while reducing pressure on your dog’s neck and throat.
Benefits of a no pull dog harness
✔ Better control for strong pullers
✔ Safer for dogs who lunge
✔ Reduces strain on the neck
✔ Helps teach better walking habits
✔ More secure than many collars
Many Australian dog owners see a huge difference immediately once they switch to a properly fitted harness.
Why a Personalised Dog Harness Is Even Better
A personalised dog harness adds extra safety on top of comfort and control.
It can include your dog’s:
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Name
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Your phone number
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Optional second contact
So if your dog slips a lead or gets spooked and runs, your contact details are visible instantly — no scanner needed.
👉 Shop our Personalised Dog Harnesses in Australia here:
https://www.petidtags.com.au/collections/personalised-dog-harness
How to Fit a No Pull Dog Harness Properly
Even the best harness won’t help if it doesn’t fit correctly.
Quick fit checklist:
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You should fit two fingers under the straps
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Harness should sit snug but not tight
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Chest strap should not rub under the armpits
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Dog should not be able to back out of it easily
If your dog is between sizes, choose the size that best fits the chest measurement.
How Long Does It Take to Stop Pulling?
Most dogs improve within 1–2 weeks with consistent training.
Big improvements usually happen within 4–6 weeks.
If your dog is:
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very excitable
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reactive
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a young puppy
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a high-energy working breed
…it may take longer — and that’s totally normal.
Bonus Tip: Tire Your Dog Out Before Walks
A dog with too much energy is more likely to pull.
Try a quick pre-walk routine:
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5 minutes of training games
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Fetch in the backyard
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A puzzle toy
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Sniffing around the yard
A calmer dog = a calmer walk.
Final Thoughts
Learning how to stop your dog pulling on the lead takes patience — but it’s absolutely achievable. The key is consistency, rewarding the behaviour you want, and using the right walking equipment.
If you want faster progress and more enjoyable walks, a well-fitted no pull dog harness is one of the best upgrades you can make.
