Canine Calm: Lead Walking #2

Why a Longer Lead Can Transform Your Walks

Let’s start with this simple truth: this is your dog’s walk. Not yours. Not your schedule. Not your step counter. So let go of the idea that you need to follow a set route, walk a certain distance, or keep up a certain pace. Instead, allow your dog to sniff, explore, and make choices. For many dogs, this is their only time in the day when they’re allowed to just be a dog.

Think about it — our dogs live a life of being constantly told what to do: When to eat. When to toilet. When to train. When to play. When to rest.

That’s a lot of structure for a curious, social, intelligent creature. Giving your dog even just 20–30 minutes a day where they can decide where to go, what to sniff, and how fast to move is a powerful emotional release. It reduces frustration, builds trust, and helps create a calmer, more content companion.

Why a Longer Lead?

A longer lead (think 3 metres or more — not a retractable one) gives your dog more space to move naturally. This extra freedom helps reduce tension in the lead — both physical and emotional. When your dog doesn’t feel like they’re constantly being held back, they’re much less likely to pull.

A short, tight lead creates a feedback loop: your dog pulls, you hold on tighter, they pull harder. With a longer lead, that cycle is broken. Your dog feels more at ease, and you get a calmer, more cooperative walking partner.

Walking With Your Dog, Not Just Beside Them

One of the most important shifts you can make in your walking routine is to start following your dog’s lead — literally!

• Let them choose the direction sometimes.

• Speed up when they do.

• Pause when they stop to sniff.

• Move with them, not against them.

This isn’t just about being “nicer” to your dog — it’s about building trust and cooperation. When your dog feels heard and supported on walks, they’re more likely to engage with you naturally.

Think of the Lead as a Flowing Line

Using a longer lead takes a bit of practice. Think of it like managing a soft, flowing ribbon between you and your dog.

• As your dog moves forward, let the lead gently flow out.

• As you catch up, calmly gather the lead back in.

• Keep the line loose, relaxed, and responsive.

Avoid yanking or holding it tight. You’re aiming for connection, not control.

Teach Cues & Celebrate Connection

Because your dog has more freedom on a longer lead, it’s important to strengthen your communication:

1. Celebrate When Your Dog Chooses to Engage With You

Every time your dog checks in with you — whether it’s a glance, a pause, or coming closer — mark the moment with a cheerful “Yes! Good girl/boy!” and follow it with a treat. You’re reinforcing the beautiful behaviour of voluntary connection.

2. Teach a Check-In Cue

Start at home. Try a cue like “Hey pup pup!”, a whistle, or clicking sound. When your dog responds, reward them. This cue becomes a gentle, positive way to get their attention on walks.

3. Use Clear Directional Cues

Teach words or signals for slowing down, crossing roads, or changing direction. This helps your dog feel confident and secure, even with more freedom. We'll discuss this more on future posts and how to train them.

Practice Game: The Treat Trail

Here’s a simple game to help you practice longer lead handling:

• In your garden or a quiet space, scatter some tasty treats on the ground.

• Clip your dog to their long lead and follow them as they sniff.

• Use the chance to let the lead flow out and reel back in smoothly as you move together.

This builds your own confidence while letting your dog enjoy some sniffy enrichment time.

Let’s Talk!

Every dog-human pair is different, and I’d love to help you and your dog get the calm, connected walks you both deserve.

Post your questions below — whether it's about long leads, cues, or specific challenges — and I’ll do my best to guide you. Let’s get you and your dog walking in sync!

Coming Next: Teaching Your Dog That Tension on the Lead Is a Cue to Check In With You — helping your dog learn that gentle pressure isn’t something to fight against, but an opportunity to reconnect.