How do I stop my dog from pulling on the leash?

Step one: equipment that doesn't reward pulling

Back-clip harnesses and flat collars give the dog the mechanical advantage, the same one sled dogs use to pull a sled. A front-clip harness moves the leash attachment to the chest, which rotates the dog toward you when they pull. For dogs whose handler is physically outmatched, a head halter (Gentle Leader, Halti) gives more control still, but requires careful introduction.

Step two: pay for slack

1. Start in a low-distraction environment (backyard, quiet street).
2. When the leash is slack, mark ("yes" or click) and treat. Frequently, every few seconds at first.
3. When the dog pulls, stop walking. Wait for the leash to go slack, then mark, treat, resume.
4. Be predictable about it. Inconsistent enforcement teaches the dog that pulling sometimes works, which is the most durable schedule.
5. Build up to higher-distraction environments slowly. Most dogs need 2–4 weeks of consistent practice before it generalizes.

Avoid retractable leashes during this training, variable tension teaches variable rules. A standard 4–6 ft flat leash or a biothane long-line for decompression sniffing is what you want.