November 14, 2025

The Real Fix for Lead Pulling: How to Turn Stressful Walks into Calm, Connected Adventures

22 minutes

Does your dog drag you down the street like you’re in a sled race you didn’t sign up for? You’re not alone… lead pulling is one of the most common struggles dog owners face, and it’s not about dominance, stubbornness, or your dog trying to be the boss. It’s simply that dogs move faster than we do - and walking nicely beside a human just doesn’t come naturally.

In this episode, I’m breaking down how to truly transform your on-lead walks, with science, strategy, and empathy. You’ll discover how to build calm, connection, and cooperation step by step, so your walks become the joyful experience they’re meant to be.

💡 In this episode, you’ll learn:

How to set your dog up for success before you even leave the house, from desensitising the lead and harness to creating calm, focused exits.

The three key concepts behind beautiful lead walking: proximity, focus, and impulse control, and how to grow them through fun, practical games.

Why it’s essential to have a clear system that tells your dog when it’s time to focus vs. when they’re free to explore (and how to set this up with your gear)

Quick, powerful ‘get back on track’ exercises for when your dog’s brain goes walkabout mid-walk

The truth about why dogs pull, and how understanding their natural movement and motivation changes everything

Mindset shifts that make lead training less stressful for you, too.

Why some dogs need a bigger lifestyle adjustment, and how exercise, enrichment, and off-lead freedom can help solve the root cause of pulling.

✨ Want to take this even further?

Discover how to build your dog’s focus, connection, and responsiveness with my 21-Day Engagement Training, the science-backed program designed to transform your relationship with your dog from distracted to devoted.

👉 Click here to explore the 21-Day Engagement Training and use code PODCAST10 for 10% off!

📱 Let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram and TikTok → @listendogtraining

🎧 If you found this episode helpful, I’d be so grateful if you left a review 🌟 or shared it with a fellow dog lover — it helps the podcast grow and helps more people train with confidence, clarity, and joy!

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By Lisa | Listen Dog Training

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