Walking your dog should be a fun, relaxing part of your day, not a battle of pulling, lunging, or tangled leashes. Whether you have a new puppy or a rescue learning the ropes, teaching leash manners is one of the best things you can do to make daily walks easier for both of you. It starts with patience and consistency. Dogs don’t naturally know how to walk calmly by your side, they explore the world with their nose, eyes, and excitement, so it’s up to us to guide them with positive reinforcement and a clear routine.
Before heading out the door, make sure your dog is wearing a harness that fits comfortably and gives you control without putting pressure on their neck. Poquito’s Y-shaped harness is a great choice for this, designed to reduce pulling and support safe, comfortable walks. With the right fit and a lightweight leash, you're already halfway there.
When you start walking, keep things calm and focused. If your dog pulls ahead, stop walking and wait until they return to your side before continuing. Over time, they’ll learn that pulling doesn’t get them where they want to go, staying close to you does. Use treats and praise to reward them when they’re walking nicely beside you. Short, consistent sessions are more effective than long, frustrating outings. It’s also a good idea to practice in quiet areas before introducing distractions like parks or busy streets.
If your dog gets excited by other people or animals, gently redirect their attention back to you. This can take practice, especially with energetic pups, but with repetition and positive reinforcement, they’ll start to understand that walks are about staying connected with you.
Leash manners don’t come overnight, but every walk is a chance to improve. The goal isn’t perfect heel-walking, it’s a comfortable, enjoyable rhythm where you and your dog move together with ease. With the right gear, a little patience, and lots of praise, daily walks can become something you both look forward to. At Poquito, we design products that help make those moments simpler, safer, and more stylish, because good leash manners start with a great leash and harness.
Poquito Pets
