How to train a dog to walk next to its owner during a walk

How do I train my dog to walk beside me for walks? If you’re a new dog parent in the U.S., you’ve probably dreamed of those picture-perfect strolls—your pup trotting calmly by your side, tails wagging in sync, instead of feeling like you’re being dragged to the nearest fire hydrant. It’s not just about looks; a dog that walks beside you is safer, happier, and makes every outing less of a workout. Let’s break down how to get there.

Dogs learn best through what behaviorists call “positive reinforcement”—rewarding the actions you want them to repeat. Think of it like teaching a kid to hold your hand: praise and a treat when they stay close, and no reaction when they dart off. Your dog doesn’t understand “bad dog” when they pull, but they do understand that staying by your side means good things—like snacks, pets, or getting to keep moving forward. This builds trust, too; they’ll start looking to you for guidance instead of making their own chaotic plans.

Start small, indoors, where distractions are low. Grab a lightweight front-clip harness (collars can hurt their neck) and a 4-foot leash. Put some high-value treats in your pocket—think small pieces of hot dog or their favorite jerky. Stand still and wait. When your dog naturally steps beside your leg, say “With me!” and toss a treat right at their feet. Do this 10-15 times in a row, then take a break. After a few days, start taking slow steps. If they stay beside you, reward. If they drift, stop walking—no scolding, just pause until they come back, then resume and reward. My neighbor’s golden retriever, Charlie, took three weeks of 5-minute daily sessions to get the hang of it; now he’ll even glance up at her for approval mid-walk.

Now, let’s tie this to real-world rules. First, compliance: Every state requires up-to-date rabies vaccines, and places like New York City will fine you if you can’t prove it. When you head outside for practice, always pack extra poop bags—cities like Austin charge $200 for leaving messes, and it’s basic decency for your community.

Culturally, never use punishment like yanking the leash or shouting. It confuses your dog and makes walks stressful, not fun. If they get distracted by a squirrel, gently say “Let’s go!” and lure them back with a treat—praise them when they refocus. This teaches them that sticking with you is more rewarding than chasing critters.

Living in an apartment? Practice in hallways during quiet times (early mornings work great) to avoid startling neighbors. When passing others, shorten the leash a bit to keep your pup from jumping—smiling and saying “We’re learning!” turns awkward moments into friendly ones. At community parks, give other dogs space until your pup is steady; rushing interactions can undo progress.

With patience, those chaotic walks will turn into bonding time. Your dog will learn that staying beside you means more treats, more exploration, and less stress—for both of you.