How to get large dog to stop pulling on leash

When the morning sun just penetrated the curtains and you crouched down to tie the leash to the golden retriever, its tail swayed wildly like a propeller, and a suppressed sob emanated from its throat - this was the most anticipated moment of the day for it. However, as soon as you opened the door, it suddenly rushed out like an arrow leaving the string, with the traction rope leaving a red mark in the palm of your hand, and you had to jog to keep up with its pace. This scene is repeated every day on the streets of the city, becoming a sweet burden for countless dog owning families. For large dogs weighing over 30 kilograms, this pulling is not only a behavioral issue, but can also lead to joint injuries, owner injuries, and even traffic accidents.

The pulling behavior of large dogs is essentially an external manifestation of genes and instincts. As descendants of wolves, their ancestors had to trek dozens of kilometers every day in search of food, a sport that was severely suppressed in modern urban life. When the traction rope suddenly restricts their freedom of movement, just like marathon runners being shackled, excess energy can only be released through pulling. The behavioral differences among different dog breeds are also worth paying attention to: working dogs such as Border Collies require continuous mental stimulation, while sled dogs such as Huskies have infinite physical reserves. Dogs with lively personalities tend to express exploratory desires through pulling, while sensitive and timid individuals may exhibit resistance due to fear.

The first step in taming a leash is to connect the dog with a wonderful experience. Adaptive training should begin during the puppy stage: place the leash in front of it and reward it with snacks when it actively sniffs. Gradually transition to lightly fastening the collar around the neck, each time lasting for a few minutes, while praising it in a gentle tone. This positive reinforcement can help dogs establish a conditioned reflex of "leash=happy travel". For adult dogs that have developed a habit of pulling, a "stop wait reward" cycle training can be used: when the dog starts pulling, immediately stop moving forward and let the leash naturally relax. When it looks back at you, use snacks to guide it back to you and reinforce this behavior with commands such as' good dog '. This type of training requires repeated practice in different environments, from quiet corridors to lively parks, gradually increasing interference factors.

Choosing appropriate training tools can achieve twice the result with half the effort. The P-chain automatically tightens when a dog pulls by compressing the carotid sinus, which is a more effective and safe physical feedback than violent dragging. For larger or stronger dog breeds, easy to wear chest straps can disperse tension and avoid neck injuries. However, it should be noted that tools are only auxiliary and cannot replace patient training. Sports management is the key to reducing pulling. At least 30 minutes of high-intensity exercise per day can effectively release a dog's excess energy: using frisbee games to exercise explosive power, using sniffing pads to meet olfactory needs, and using obedience training to burn mental energy. When a dog's body and brain are fully satisfied, it will naturally behave more calmly when going out.

Walking training should start indoors. Hold a snack and guide the dog to stay on your left side, stopping immediately whenever it leads. When it actively returns to the correct position, give a snack reward and verbal praise. This kind of 'accompanying training' requires repeated practice in different environments, from quiet corridors to lively parks, gradually increasing interference factors. It is crucial to remain calm when encountering unexpected situations. When a dog suddenly rushes towards a target, do not pull hard, but gently shake the leash and give the command to "stop". If it follows instructions, immediately reward it with snacks; If you continue to pull, turn around and walk in the opposite direction, making it understand that pulling cannot achieve the goal.

Change cannot be achieved overnight. Some dogs require weeks or even months of continuous training to completely break their pulling habits. During this process, the emotional management of the owner is particularly important. When a dog repeatedly makes mistakes, take a deep breath and recall the original intention of the training - not to conquer, but to understand and guide. Every progress is worth celebrating, and every setback is an opportunity for growth. When one day you find that your dog can quietly follow you, with the leash hanging loosely between you, that kind of tacit understanding will make all the effort worthwhile. This seemingly simple traction rope is actually a link that connects two lives, conveying not only control, but also responsibility and love.

In this jungle of steel and concrete, let us use scientific methods, endless patience, and full of love to tie a free and safe leash for large dogs. When you walk side by side through the streets of the four seasons, that no longer taut rope will eventually become the warmest scenery in the city. This understanding and care will become the strongest bond, accompanying you through every dawn and dusk.