Dogs pull because:

• They naturally walk faster than us
• They’re curious and excited about the world
• Smells, squirrels, dogs, people… everything is interesting!
• Pulling has worked before — it got them closer to something they wanted
• They simply haven’t learned another way yet

When you think about it, it makes total sense. We put a dog on a lead, take them somewhere exciting, and then walk too slowly for their liking.

They’re not trying to be difficult — they’re just responding to their environment and doing what works for them.

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🧠 Shift the Mindset

Instead of thinking:

“My dog won’t listen.”

Try thinking:

“I haven’t taught them what I’d like them to do yet.”

That small mindset shift makes training feel kinder, calmer and more achievable.

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👣 My Favourite Guideline:

“Nose Behind Toes”

A simple rule that helps keep loose-lead walking clear and fair:

✨ If your dog’s nose stays behind your toes, you’re in a good place.

We’re not aiming for a military heel — just walking together, comfortably and calmly.

When your dog’s nose starts creeping ahead of your toes:

➡️ pause
➡️ reset or invite them back
➡️ reward when they’re walking with you again

That’s it. Small moments, repeated consistently, build really lovely habits.

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🌿 Sniffing Matters Too

Loose-lead walking doesn’t mean your dog can’t sniff. Sniffing is incredibly important for dogs — it helps them:

• Process the environment
• Feel good
• Reduce stress
• Engage their brain

Try adding:

✅ sniff breaks
✅ a “go sniff” cue
✅ time to explore in safe areas

That way your dog learns the difference between:

Walking together calmly
and
Time to explore and enjoy smells

Both are valuable.

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🧡 Gentle Reminders

• This takes practice (for both ends of the lead!)
• Celebrate tiny wins — one good step leads to more
• Patience and consistency really do pay off
• Your dog isn’t giving you a hard time — they’re having a hard time managing excitement

Loose-lead walking is a skill, and like any skill, it grows with repetition, support and understanding.

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✨ Final Thoughts

The goal isn’t perfection — it’s partnership.

Dog walks don’t need to be rigid and serious. They can be relaxed, sniff-filled, connection-building moments that strengthen your bond and help your dog feel calm and secure out in the world.

Little steps, little wins, kind training… and suddenly those walks start to feel a whole lot lighter 💛🐾