Taking your dog on walks should feel like quality time, not a tug-of-war. If every stroll turns into a battle of wills, you’re definitely not alone. Leash training can be tricky — especially with energetic pups or dogs that never learned how to walk calmly. But with a few practical strategies and the right mindset, things can shift faster than you think. Here’s a breakdown of tried-and-true leash training strategies from our New Braunfels animal clinic you can use at home.

Our New Braunfels Animal Clinic Recommends Starting Indoors Where It’s Familiar  

Before stepping out into the world of squirrels, cars, and tempting scents, let your dog get used to the leash in a quiet space. Clip it on during playtime or while they’re lounging around the house. This helps them associate the leash with normal, positive moments—not just “it’s time to behave” vibes.

If you’ve got a new puppy, starting early makes everything easier. But even older dogs can learn. The key is consistency and not rushing the process.

Practice in New Places Slowly  

Once your dog gets the hang of leash manners at home, it’s time to add distractions — but gradually. Many veterinarians in New Braunfels, Texas, suggest starting in low-distraction areas before advancing to busier locations. A quiet sidewalk or a less-busy park is a great next step. New environments will challenge their focus, but that’s part of the learning process.

Bring those treats along, and don’t expect too much too soon. Your dog’s leash behavior might regress a bit in new spots, but keep reinforcing the good stuff.

Gear That Makes a Difference

The type of leash and harness you use can change the entire experience. A standard 4–6 foot leash gives you control without tangling things up, and a no-pull harness can be especially helpful if your dog is already in the habit of dragging you down the street.

Skip the retractable leashes during training — they encourage pulling and can actually make it harder for your dog to learn boundaries.  

Reinforcement Goes a Long Way  

Treats aren’t just for tricks — they’re your best tool for shaping leash behavior. Keep a few of your dog’s favorite snacks in your pocket and reward them whenever they walk calmly beside you. Praise helps too, but most dogs are more food-motivated than anything else.

Mark the good behavior with a cheerful “yes!” or a clicker if you’re using one. The timing matters — the reward should come right when your dog does the thing you’re looking for.

Stop the Pulling Without a Power Struggle  

The moment your dog starts pulling, stop walking. Just pause and wait. When they look back or take a step toward you, praise and resume walking. This teaches them that pulling = no progress and staying near you = forward motion.

Another method is the “turn and go” approach. Instead of stopping, simply change direction. This gets your dog’s attention back on you and interrupts the pulling pattern without a confrontation.

Short Sessions, Big Results  

Dogs, especially younger ones, learn better in short bursts. Five to ten minutes of leash practice once or twice a day works better than one long, frustrating walk. Keep your sessions upbeat and end on a win — even if that just means one good minute of walking together.

Training isn't about perfection; it's about small, steady improvement.

Make “Heel” a Game  

Teaching your dog to “heel” — walk right at your side — can be useful, especially in crowded places. You don’t need to use the command all the time, but practicing it a few minutes a day gives your dog a clear structure to follow.

Start by luring them to your side with a treat, say “heel,” take a few steps, and reward again. Keep it relaxed and positive.

Leash Training Made Easier with Help from Our New Braunfels Animal Clinic  

Leash training can be tricky when your dog isn't feeling their best. Health issues like joint pain or muscle stiffness can make walks uncomfortable, which can affect their training progress. At Dr. Missy’s Vet Mobile, we offer wellness exams that help identify any underlying health concerns that might be getting in the way of your dog's comfort. Our mobile New Braunfels animal clinic come straight to you, making it easy to get the care your dog needs.

We also provide puppy care, offering essential services like vaccinations, early health checks, and advice on starting off strong with basic training. A solid foundation helps your puppy grow into a confident, healthy dog, making walks and training more enjoyable for both of you.

Request an appointment today to make sure your dog is feeling great and ready to tackle training!