How often have you seen someone walking their dog that’s being walked by the dog instead? Quite often, I bet. Leash pulling is a common problem shared by many different breeds of dog, seen in both pups and adult dogs. Apart from the annoyance of this problem, it could lead to bigger problems especially if the lead breaks and the dog runs off.

Leash pulling is down to several different causes.

• In situations where the dog has not been properly trained it may well see itself as the leader, the alpha male or female, and pull ahead to gain front position, leading the pack.

• Other dogs lose control and want to move around through sheer excitement at being out on a walk.

The answers to the problem are simple.

If your dog is just excited then the simplest solution is to calm him down. Just stand with your dog on the leash for a few minutes until he calms down and relaxes.

If he feels he is the alpha male then you have more work in front of you and need to train him to know his rightful place in your relationship. Basic obedience training will work best here, either by you or by a professional.

Training your dog to walk beside you or slightly behind ‘at heel’ is a fairly simple process.

Start to walk with your dog on the leash beside you. If he starts to pull ahead then a gentle tug on the leash should bring him back beside you. Command him ‘Heel’ as you tug the lead. If he starts to lag behind then tug the lead again and repeat the command ‘Heel’.

Changing direction can also help when you dog starts to pull ahead. This will force him to come back to you as the leash tightens. Do not forget to give the command when you do this.

By repeating this process of gentle tugging and changing direction coupled with use of the ‘Heel’ command you will teach the dog to walk beside you without pulling on the leash.

This lesson will need to be repeated until the dog learns to accept his position as being beside you, not in front or lagging behind. Once this situation has been reached you then have the chance to let him off the leash and have him walk beside you with just the occasional ‘Heel’ needed to correct him.