How I got my pug to stop pulling on leash walks

Walking your pug can be a delightful experience, but if your furry friend has a habit of pulling on the leash, it can quickly turn into a less enjoyable outing.

While I loved my last pug, Benji, he was terrible on walks because of his leash pulling 🤯

And it was just something I didn’t correct early on, so it became a habit that was hard to break.

So when I got Lats, I wanted to rectify that.

Training your pug to walk politely on a leash is not only essential for your comfort but also for their safety. In this guide, we will explore effective techniques to help you teach your pug to stop pulling during leash walks.

Start Early and Start with Basic Obedience Training

Before addressing leash pulling specifically, it’s crucial to establish a foundation of basic obedience training. Teach your pug commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “heel” in a controlled environment. Consistency is key, so practice these commands regularly to instill good behavior.

Invest in the Right Equipment

Choosing the proper leash and collar/harness can make a significant difference. Opt for a harness that fits comfortably and discourages pulling. Retractable leashes can sometimes encourage pulling behavior, so consider using a fixed-length leash for better control.

Caesar Milan recommends a lead leash:

His branded leash is a little pricy, so this is the leash I got on Amazon for about $10. I’d say it works okay, with the caveat that of course there’s probably some user error. She still gets excited and will pull even though it chokes her ☹️

Contrary to popular opinion, the pugs I’ve had were on the hyper side.

So I bought this no-pull/no-choke harness and it works great!… if she pulls it just turns her right around. Lats is currently about 13 lbs and she wears an extra small. I’d say the XS would work for Pugs up to 20 lbs. If your pug is a little on the fatter side, I’d think about sizing up.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Pugs respond well to positive reinforcement. Whenever your pug walks without pulling, reward them with treats, praise, or a combination of both. This positive association will motivate them to repeat the desired behavior.

Change Directions

If your pug starts pulling, change directions abruptly. This interrupts their forward momentum and communicates that pulling will not lead to where they want to go. Be patient and consistent in redirecting their focus. It also communicates that you’re the leader on walks.

Stop and Wait

When your pug pulls, come to a complete stop and wait until they release tension on the leash. Once they do, continue walking. This teaches them that pulling leads to a halt in their walk, discouraging the behavior.

Avoid Pulling Back

Resist the urge to pull back on the leash when your pug is tugging. This can create a tug-of-war dynamic and reinforce pulling behavior. Instead, stay firm and use the techniques mentioned earlier to guide them.

Practice Loose Leash Walking

Dedicate specific training sessions to practicing loose leash walking. Encourage your pug to walk beside you without pulling, rewarding them for maintaining a loose leash. Gradually increase the duration of these sessions as your pug improves.

Stay Calm and Patient

Consistency and patience are key elements in training any dog. Keep your cool, even if progress seems slow. Celebrate small victories, and remember that every successful walk without pulling is a step in the right direction.

Conclusion

Achieving leash etiquette with your pug requires a combination of positive reinforcement, consistency, and patience. By incorporating these techniques into your training routine, you can enjoy pleasant walks with your pug without the frustration of constant pulling. Remember, building a strong bond through positive training methods will result in a well-behaved and happy pug.