Canine Calm: Lead Walking
- Karen
- Apr 21
- 2 min read
Canine Calm Series: Why Lead Walking Feels So Stressful (and What to Do About It)
Let’s talk about something so many of us struggle with but rarely say out loud:
“Walking my dog is really stressful.”
You imagined calm, happy walks together. Instead, it’s pulling, lunging, and you gripping the lead like your life depends on it. Sound familiar?
I’ve been there. You’re doing your best—stopping when they pull, saying "no," trying to get them to sit—but it doesn’t work. Your dog either doesn’t respond or goes right back to dragging you down the street. It can feel physically painful, emotionally draining, and honestly, a little scary.
If you’re at the point where walking your dog feels more like a battle than bonding, I want you to know two really important things:
It’s not your fault.
Your dog isn’t being naughty.
The truth is, dogs aren’t born knowing how to walk on a lead. In fact, most of them see the lead simply as a signal that something exciting is about to happen! For some dogs, that’s thrilling. For others, it’s overwhelming. Either way, expecting them to suddenly stay calm and focused on a walk is like asking a toddler to concentrate in a sweet shop.
What We’ll Be Covering (And Why You’ll Feel So Much More in Control)
If walks with your dog are feeling anything but calm right now, you’re not alone—and you’re absolutely not failing. Lead walking is a skill, and like any skill, it takes the right tools, some guidance, and a bit of practice.
This series is here to give you clear, supportive steps that really work—no judgment, no pressure. Just realistic, dog-friendly solutions you can start using at your own pace. And the best part? You and your dog will start feeling more connected and confident, one small win at a time.
Here’s what we’ll be exploring together:
🐾 How to Make Being Near You the Best Part of the Walk
We’ll look at simple, fun games you can play at home that help your dog want to stay close to you—so you’re not always competing with distractions.
🌿 Why a Longer Lead Might Be the Game-Changer You’ve Been Missing
Discover how giving your dog a little more freedom can actually lead to less pulling—and how to use a longer lead safely and effectively.
👀 Teaching Your Dog to Check In (Without Nagging or Yelling)
You’ll learn how to build easy, everyday cues that keep your dog tuned in to you on walks—without having to raise your voice or feel frustrated.
🚶♂️ 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 don’t have to have it all figured out today—you just need a starting point. This series will guide you, step by step, with encouragement, clarity, and lots of practical ideas to try right away.
💬 I’d love to hear from you—what part of lead walking feels the hardest right now? Drop a comment or question, and let’s tackle it together. You’ve got this. 🐶💛
Hi Denise, I love how in tune you are with your dog and aware of how his behaviour might affect others — that’s such a thoughtful way to approach walks!
You’re totally right that even though his tail is wagging and he’s just excited, not all dogs (or their people!) will appreciate a loud, shouty hello across the road. What you’re seeing — that big vocal response — is a classic sign that his arousal has spiked. When that happens, your dog isn’t being naughty or ignoring you on purpose; he’s just too emotionally charged to focus or respond well. Think of it like trying to solve a math problem while riding a rollercoaster — it's just too much!
There…
seeing another dog across the road, my dog is very vocal. Hes tail is wagging to play but i tell him not to shout as a lot of dogs do not like it. he doesn't care, treats sometimes work