Canine Calm: Lead Walking #3

Teaching Your Dog That Lead Tension Means “Check In”

In our last post, we explored the value of walking on a loose lead—offering your dog more freedom to explore with a longer lead, allowing them to choose where to walk, and understanding that this is their walk. But we also touched on something just as important: safety.

There will be times on a walk when you need your dog to slow down, come closer, or change direction. Maybe they’re too near the road, or another dog is heading your way and you’re unsure how either will react. Perhaps it’s simply time to head home. In these moments, having a calm, clear way to communicate with your dog—without pulling or popping the lead—is essential. That’s where teaching your dog that gentle tension on the lead is their cue to check in with you becomes an incredibly valuable tool.

Let’s explore how to build this skill together—because just like your dog is learning, so are you.

1. Focus: Stay Connected With Your Dog

Lead communication starts with you being present. Watch how your dog is moving—are they speeding up, slowing down, veering to one side? Respond by adjusting the lead gently and fluidly. If they’re moving ahead, let the lead flow out. If you’re coming closer, draw it in smoothly. Being in sync with your dog’s movements means the lead can act as a subtle signal rather than something that jolts or corrects them. Think of it as a dance rather than a tug-of-war.

2. Be Proactive, Not Reactive

Instead of waiting until your dog is already pulling hard or heading somewhere unsafe, think ahead. Is there a road coming up? A dog approaching? Is your walk nearly over? By scanning your environment and planning a few steps ahead, you can guide your dog early with a gentle cue and avoid last-minute panic or pulling. This builds trust and keeps your dog feeling safe and supported.

3. Use Verbal and Visual Cues

Teaching your dog to check in with you can be a fun and engaging process. If your dog starts to follow a scent into a garden or off the path, call them back with light-hearted cues like “pup pup!”, “Hey sweeties!”, a whistle, or a kissy sound. These sounds should be upbeat and pleasant—not stressful.

As soon as they turn toward you, celebrate! Say “Super!” or “Good boy/girl!” and toss them a few treats. At the same time, use your body language to help: face the direction you want to go, so your dog has even more information to go on.💡 Note: If your dog doesn’t always respond to their name, skip it here—it’s better to use other reliable cues that keep things positive and predictable.

4. Play the “Scatter Treat Tension” Game

Many dogs associate lead tension with frustration (“I can’t get to that smell!”) or even confusion. Some have learned that pulling leads to stopping—or worse, to being yanked back.

Let’s change that association with a calm, rewarding game:

• With your dog on lead, scatter a handful of treats or some of their daily food nearby.

• While your dog is sniffing and enjoying the treats, gently add just a touch of tension to the lead—enough that they can feel it, but it doesn’t interrupt them.

• Stand facing away from your dog.

• The moment your dog finishes the treats and turns to look at you—boom!—praise them warmly and drop more treats by your feet.

This is a simple but powerful way to show your dog that feeling tension means checking in with you brings good things. It’s the first step in building mutual understanding through the lead.

🐾 In Summary

Teaching your dog that slight lead tension means “slow down” or “check in” helps you both feel more connected and confident on walks. It’s not about control—it’s about communication.

By staying focused, being proactive, using friendly cues, and making it fun, your dog will begin to understand that the lead isn’t something to fight against. It’s part of the conversation you’re having together—one that keeps them safe and supports their freedom at the same time.

Coming next in our Canine Calm Lead Series: The Secret to Separating Training Walks from “Just for Fun” Walks

We’ll break down how to give your dog structure and freedom, so they’re learning new skills without missing out on the joy of being a dog.

You're doing a great job—keep going. 💛