Leash pulling and reactivity: Dog training tips

Imagine you’re walking down the street with your pup, and you see someone else walking their dog ahead of you. Your dog sees them, too. He starts barking, jumping around, and performing other unwanted behaviours. What do you do?  

Here are some tips to help calm your dog and reduce reactivity. 

What you can do about leash pulling and reactivity: 

• The first step is to try and limit exposure to overly exciting situations, such as crowded streets, that exceed your dog’s ability to handle calmly. This will help keep your dog calm enough to learn new ways of behaving. 

• Keep your distance when you see an approaching person or dog. Leave enough space so your dog can remain calm, respond to cues, and eat treats. 

• Another tip is to try and walk during lower traffic times of the day and in less populated areas. Walking in areas with multiple route options so you can quickly change direction will also be useful. 

• Remove your dog from situations when needed or reduce the intensity of the situation to prevent your dog from engaging in unwanted behaviours like barking, pulling, or lunging. 

Quick fixes: 

• Cross the street. 

• Do a U-turn and move back in the opposite direction. 

• Move off the main pathways until the human or dog distraction has passed. 

• If your dog looks like they might react, use an interrupter such as a treat, a cue for known behaviour or a handclap or light tap. Try not to scare your dog but simply break their focus. 

• Use visual barriers. Which can include a building, parked vehicle, tree, or bush. By blocking your dog’s view of the passing person or dog, it can reduce the intensity of the situation. Keep your dog busy by rewarding cued behaviours or giving them treats. 

• If your dog reacts, turn and move your dog far away so they can calm down. Reassess and see if the situation was too close or if there were any triggers that can be avoided next time. 

Managing leash pulling and reactivity starts with setting your dog up for success by limiting overwhelming situations, creating distance from triggers, and using calm redirection techniques. With proactive planning, quick adjustments, and consistent positive reinforcement, you can help your dog feel more secure and build better walking habits over time. 

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