SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/dog-leash-pull-stop

Your dog pulls hard on the leash. What should you do?

Stop walking until the pulling stops.

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  1. Run faster to keep up
  2. Yank the leash hard
  3. Stop and wait until it stops pulling ✔

Why: Illinois Extension says to stop walking and wait for your dog to stop pulling, then ask it to sit. Walk on only when it is calm, and reward it for walking beside you.

Huh, didn't know that: Illinois Extension teaches walking on your left side with the word "heel."

The dad joke
Why did the dog pull on the leash? He was in a ruff hurry.
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References

Answer: Stop and wait until it stops pulling. Illinois Extension says to stop walking and wait for your dog to stop pulling, then ask it to sit. Walk on only when it is calm, and reward it for walking beside you.

  1. University of Illinois Extension, Teaching Your Dog Good Behavior (Walking) web.extension.illinois.edu/dogs/goodbehavior.cfm?Slide=6
    If he does pull on the leash, stop walking and wait for him to stop pulling on the leash and ask him to sit.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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