This puppy would bark and pull when neighbors walked by. We used the “find it” game, tossing treats on the ground to create a positive association with people passing. The key is staying under threshold—if they can look, listen, and take treats, you’re in the right spot. If not, increase distance. With consistency and awareness, reactivity can turn into focus.
Kooby was an extreme leash puller who had pulled his owner to the ground. We started with proper leash handling and choosing a consistent walking side, then built a clear heel position. From there, we focused on impulse control at the door, porch, and yard gate. With consistent repetition and structure, Kooby learned to walk calmly and wait for permission before exiting.
This video highlights my approach to loose leash walking by coaching the handler first—not just correcting the dog. You’ll see luring into heel, using a consistent release cue (“walk”/“let’s go”), stepping off with the leg closest to the dog for clarity, engaging with a treat at nose level, and reducing leash tension to encourage voluntary following and focus.
