Stop Leash Pulling
Leash pulling turns a simple walk into a tug-of-war. In the Coachella Valley, safe, calm walks matter—especially with heat, traffic, and busy public spaces. Here’s a balanced plan that works:
1) Collar Fit matters: Use a rolled leather collar or well-fitted training tool. Attach the leash and test responsiveness indoors first. HARNESSES are a NO NO! If you are using a Harness now, STOP , as it is contributing to the issue you are trying to stop! Harnesses were designed for dogs to be able to pull on a sled without doing harm to their bodies. They also encourage dogs to pull, as their desire to get from point A to point B grows stronger, the more they pull to the desired point, and cant reach it due to the limitations of the harness holding them back. SIDE NOTE: If you are planning to do agility, I find using a harness on your dog just before going into the ring, helps fire up their energy and increase their run time overall. If you are worried about your dog pulling on its neck, that is the whole purpose of doing this training, in teaching leash pressure and focus on the walks as outlined in the next few steps. Booking a one on one with Marko when in the Coachella Valley, is a great way to get direct guidance and demonstration on just how easy this process is, and how to end pulling and gain focus right away.
2) Zero-tension rule: The second the leash tightens, stop. When your dog softens the leash and checks in, mark (“Yes”) and move forward. You can learn more about Markers and their use, as a member of my Patreon,
3) Reward position: Hand a treat at your leg as you walk. Reward every 3–5 steps at first. Using your dogs breakfast kibble or dinner kibble is a great way to do this, as it teaches them to work for their resources, and uses a time where they are hungry to use Hunger drive to help gain focus. It is VERY IMPORTANT to ensure you keep your dog no further than your leg. If they go ahead of you, a slight leash communication and turn away from them, rewarding when they hit the proper position is very helpful. REMEMBER, your dog should NEVER walk ahead of you, if you want to get rid of leash pulling.
4) Turn-away drill: If your dog surges, make a smooth 180o turn, invite them with you, and reward when they rejoin your side. I find if you condition your dog to always knowing that your hand by your side equals a reward is coming, when they return back to you after a lunge if this is conditioned, they will always return to your side.
5) Short sessions: 8–10 minutes, 1–2x daily. Evening or early morning to avoid heat.
6) Graduation: Add mild distractions (quiet streets, then busier spots like El Paseo sidewalks), keeping the zero-tension rule.
Need help customizing the plan? Book a local consult at MarkoRussellCLS.com. For step-by-step videos and printable drills, join my Patreon.
