Puppy Pulling on Leash 2025: Vet Designed Solutions 🐾

By Dr. Duncan Houston BVSc

Is your puppy turning every walk into a tug-of-war? You’re not alone. Leash pulling is one of the most common puppy behavior problems—and one of the easiest to fix when addressed early.

I’m Dr. Duncan Houston, veterinarian and founder of Woopf. As a vet who’s worked with countless dogs in clinics and rescue settings, I know that preventing pulling is far easier than un-training it later. Here's how to stop your puppy from pulling using simple, science-backed methods and vet-designed gear.

🎯 Why Puppies Pull on the Leash

• 🐾 They’re excited and haven’t learned pace yet
  
• 🧠 Walking straight next to you is not natural—it must be taught
•  🚫 Traditional collars encourage pulling due to the pressure reflex
•  🔗 Inconsistent gear or routines confuse learning

Vet Tip: Pulling is a behavior reinforced by movement—if pulling gets them where they want to go, they’ll keep doing it.

✅ Step-by-Step Plan to Stop Puppy Pulling

1. Use a Front-Clip Harness 

• Explorer Harness – Designed by vets to gently redirect pulling from the front 
• ✅ Prevents pressure on neck and spine 
• ✅ Encourages your dog to face you when they pull

2. Shorten the Leash (Safely)

• Bungee Lead – Cushions pulls without jerking their body 
• ✅ Ideal leash length: 1.2–1.5m (not retractable)
• ✅ Hold with soft arms and let the tension “breathe”

3. Reward Calm, Loose Leash Walking 

• 🎁 Carry high-value treats in your Woopf Dual Pocket Dispenser 
• 🗣️ Mark “yes!” the moment the leash goes slack and reward
•  ⏱️ Reward often—every 3–5 seconds at first

4. Stop Forward Movement When They Pull 

• ⛔ The moment the leash tightens, stop moving 
• 🔁 Wait until they come back or give slack, then continue 
• 📍 You can also “turn and go” in the opposite direction gently

📋 Loose Leash Walking Mini Training Plan

🧠 Teach Cues to Improve Leash Behavior 

• 🗣️ “Let’s go” – start moving 
• 🔁 “Turn” – redirect when distraction ahead
•  📍 “Wait” – pause at intersections or triggers

Reward calm responses to cues with treats and praise.

🚫 What NOT to Do

• ❌ Don’t yank the leash or correct with force—it creates stress and mistrust
• ❌ Don’t use retractable leashes—they encourage pulling and limit control
• ❌ Don’t wait until “they’re older”—pulling habits form fast

💬 What Puppy Parents Say

“We started with the Explorer Harness and the difference was instant—no more choking and way more control.” – Andrea & Louie

“The bungee leash took the strain off my arm, and our puppy finally walks without yanking!” – Daniel & Nala

🎁 Woopf Walk Control Bundle

• Explorer Harness – Front-clip, no-choke design 
• Bungee Lead – Reduces leash shock for both of you
• Dual Pocket Treat Dispenser – Instant rewards on every walk

Final Thoughts

Pulling is normal for puppies—but it doesn’t have to be permanent. With the right gear, smart reinforcement, and patient practice, you’ll have a dog who walks calmly, comfortably, and connected to you for life.