Leash Pulling, Reactivity and Recall Without Pain

Pulling, lunging and ignoring the recall cue are the three problems that send people to a prong or a remote. All three are learned behaviors, and all three can be unlearned with rewards.

Leash pulling

Dogs pull because it works. Every step with a tight leash pays the dog for pulling. Stop leash pulling without a prong is the step-by-step version. If you’re using a prong today, swap it for a front-clip harness, which is management, not training. What vets say about prongs covers why to switch.

Reactivity

A dog who barks and lunges at other dogs is usually afraid or frustrated. Punishment can quiet the display and leave the feeling behind. Why punishment backfires, and what to do instead.

Recall

A good recall is about competing with squirrels, smells and sandwiches, not about control. Build a recall without shock walks through it from your dog’s name to the long line.

Gear

The training kit starter lists the basics. Prices are checked and dated, and they change.

Related guides

• E-collars: what the research and the law say
• Alpha and dominance myths

Not vet advice. If your dog’s behavior is new or sudden, rule out pain or illness with your veterinarian first.