The Top 5 Mistakes Dog Owners Make with Leash Training and How to Avoid Them

We’ve all been there — standing on the sidewalk while your dog drags you toward every interesting smell, or worse, feeling like you’re in a tug-of-war contest you never signed up for. The truth? Most leash training struggles aren’t about a ‘bad dog’ — they’re about common mistakes that are totally fixable. Let’s walk through the top 5 leash training mistakes (that honestly, most of us have made!) and how to turn those walks into the peaceful, connected moments you’ve been dreaming of.

1. Using the Wrong Leash for Your Dog

One of the most common mistakes is not using the right type of leash for your dog. Different dogs have different needs, and the leash we choose can significantly impact our training results. For instance, a retractable leash might be fine for a calm dog, but it can encourage pulling for more energetic dogs.

At Aly’s Puppy Boot Camp, the  Good Walker Leash isn’t just a tool—it’s a total game-changer for our families. Say goodbye to rope burn and chaos. This leash gives you solid control and smooth direction, so every walk feels confident, calm, and connected. Because let’s be honest—no one’s got time for a leash that fights back.

2. Not Being Consistent with Commands

Let’s be real — consistency is hard when life gets busy! One day you’re patient and focused, the next day you’re rushing to work and just want your dog to move along. But here’s the thing: mixed signals create confused dogs. For example, if you occasionally pull your dog along when they stop or pull, they won’t understand the connection between their behavior and your expectations. 

Make sure to use the same words or gestures consistently and reinforce them with treats or praise when they respond appropriately.

3. Ditch the Yank—Lead with Purpose

Aly’s mantra? “KEEP YOUR HANDS DOWN LOW AND GO!”

Yep, right by your pockets—and don’t let ’em fly up, no matter what’s happening around you.

Here’s the scoop: yanking the leash doesn’t teach your dog not to pull—it just adds tension, confusion, and sometimes even pain. I’ve seen well-meaning owners unknowingly turn a simple walk into a tug-of-war.

At  Aly’s Puppy Boot Camp, we teach leash skills that feel more like a dance than a wrestling match. Use calm, steady guidance and reward those good choices when your dog stays beside you. Gentle pressure + clear direction = trust, teamwork, and way more peaceful walks.

Because leash training isn’t about overpowering—it’s about connecting.

4. Don’t Just Practice at Home—Train Where Life Happens!

Sure, your dog walks like a dream in your driveway… but toss in a squirrel, a stroller, or a skateboard and—whoops—now you’re waterskiing behind your pup!

At Aly’s Puppy Boot Camp, we say it all the time: your dog’s leash skills need to work out there where life gets real. Practicing only in quiet spaces is like training for a marathon on a treadmill—good start, but not the whole picture.

Mix it up! Head to the park, walk past barking dogs, explore noisy downtown streets. Every new environment builds your dog’s focus muscles. Start for small amounts of time in these distracting environments.  Reward each small win. The goal? A pup who can tune in to you—no matter the chaos.

Want real-world leash wins?  check out our blog on Summer Hikes: Essential Leash Walking Tips., for how to level up your walks without the drama.

5. Forgetting to Be Patient

Leash training takes time and patience. It’s easy to get frustrated when your dog doesn’t immediately understand what you want, but remember, dogs don’t learn overnight. Be patient and consistent, and over time, your dog will learn to walk calmly on a leash.

If you’re feeling stuck or need personalized advice, Aly’s Puppy Boot Camp offers in-person training sessions that can provide hands-on support to get you and your dog on the right track.

Conclusion: Make Leash Training Fun and Effective

Here’s what we know for sure: every dog can learn to walk calmly — and every owner can feel confident on the other end of that leash. It’s not about perfection; it’s about progress, patience, and the right support along the way.

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