How to train your dog to walk beside you with a leash?

There’s nothing worse than hitting the sidewalk only to have your dog turn into a tug-of-war champion, yanking you toward every squirrel or fire hydrant in sight. Those chaotic walks don’t just ruin your afternoon—they can land you in trouble in areas with strict leash laws, where uncontrolled dogs might violate local ordinances.

Start small, even indoors. Clip a lightweight leash to their collar or harness while they’re eating or playing. Let them drag it around the house so it feels like part of their normal gear, not something restrictive. Once they’re used to the weight, pick up the handle and take a few steps. If they follow without pulling, reward them with a tiny treat—think cheese or a freeze-dried liver bit.

Move outside when they’re comfortable, but stick to quiet spots first. A busy park with other dogs and kids will only distract them. Stand still and wait for them to look at you; when they do, say “let’s go” and take a step forward. If the leash tightens, stop walking. Dogs quickly learn that pulling gets them nowhere, while slack in the leash means the adventure continues.

Timing is everything. The second they step beside your knee—where you want them to stay—praise them like they just won a trophy. “Good heel!” works, but so does an excited “yes!” and a scratch behind the ears. Consistency beats intensity here; five minutes of focused practice daily beats a 30-minute slog where both of you get frustrated.

Be ready for detours. When a bike zooms by or a neighbor’s cat saunters by, your dog will want to investigate. Instead of yanking them back, use a high-pitched “look at me!” to redirect their attention. Once they make eye contact, reward them and keep moving. This teaches them to trust your judgment over their impulses.

Remember those local rules? Many cities require dogs to stay within 6 feet of their owner on a leash in public areas. A dog that walks calmly beside you isn’t just easier to handle—it keeps you on the right side of the law. Plus, it makes encounters with other walkers, kids, or service animals safer for everyone involved.

If progress stalls, check your gear. A well-fitted harness that clips at the chest can reduce pulling better than a collar. And don’t forget to vary your routes—new smells keep their brain engaged, making them less likely to fixate on pulling.

With patience, those walks will go from stressful to enjoyable. Imagine strolling through the neighborhood, your dog trotting happily beside you, no straining, no sudden lunges. It’s not just a dream—it’s totally achievable. And hey, once you nail it, you might even start looking forward to those daily walks.