Here’s the truth:

No dog is born knowing how to walk on a lead.

It’s not a natural behaviour, it’s a human expectation. But most owners forget that and never actually teach their dog how.

Instead, what happens is this:

• The dog wants to move forward

• You pull back

• They pull harder

• You pull again… and now you’re in a full on tug of war

Sound familiar?

This happens because of opposition reflex, a natural response that says “if something pulls me, I pull back.” Dogs have it. Humans have it. If someone grabbed your arm and yanked you backwards, you’d instinctively pull away too, right? It’s not disobedience. It’s just instinct.

🛠️ So How Do You Actually Stop It?

You don’t need a magic harness, silly games or leads wrapped round their muzzle. You simply just have to teach them the position they should stay in, while on the move.

✅ Step 1: Teach the Heel Position

Before you even start moving, your dog needs to learn where “heel” actually is.

• Stand still.

• Lure them with food to sit next to your left or right side, feet in line with yours, facing the same way as you.

• Mark and reward when they’re in the right place.

✅ Step 2: Teach Leash Pressure

Next, show your dog what it means when the lead goes tight. Most dogs see it as resistance, but we want to turn it into a cue.

• When your dog reaches the end of the lead, stop.

• Wait for them to turn around or move towards you.

• The second they do: mark and reward.

✅ Step 3: Add Movement and Structure

Now put it together. Start walking in short lines or circles.

• Reward your dog for staying in the heel position

• The second they drift forward or pull — stop or change direction

• Use leash pressure as a consequence to help them find their way back to position

Lead pulling isn’t a naughty behaviour, it’s the result of a dog who’s never been shown another way.

The fix isn’t to “correct the pulling” it’s to teach them the right thing in the first place.