October 1, 2026, 6:22 am | Read time: 3 minutes
Many dog owners know the problem: The dog pulls on the leash during walks, turning every step into a struggle. But the pulling is not a sign of disrespect or poor training, explains dog trainer Katharina Marioth. “The most common misunderstanding is the question of why,” she says. Many consider the dog “unruly,” but it has simply learned that pulling leads to success: “It gets to the sniffing spot, the other dog, or the interesting person faster.” Why human behavior also plays a role and why there is no one-size-fits-all solution for good leash training, the expert explains to PETBOOK.
“Leash training requires time, consistency, and good reward points”
But it’s not just the dog; the human also significantly influences the behavior. Many owners unconsciously give in by extending their arm. This alone teaches the dog that pulling is worthwhile. “Leash training requires time, consistency, and good reward points,” emphasizes Marioth. Additionally, the dog must first understand where its “dance area” is next to the human.
According to the trainer, there is no universal method for all dogs. Instead, it depends on the interaction between the animal, the human, and the environment. A very fast dog needs a correspondingly quick-reacting owner, while dogs with slower learning abilities benefit mainly from consistency. For anxious rescue dogs, it is initially important to build trust and security. “Leash training is not a question of respect or status,” Marioth clarifies. “For dogs, it is simply unnatural to walk slowly and controlled next to us–we have to teach them fairly.”
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Retractable leashes not really suitable
She also dismisses the widespread belief that pulling on the leash is a sign of a lack of bond. A dog that wants to chase a squirrel is not less bonded with its owner–the animal is simply more exciting at that moment. Additionally, the length of the leash plays a significant role: If you let your dog run on a long retractable leash, you cannot expect it to suddenly walk calmly on a 1.5-meter leash.
Marioth is particularly critical of these retractable leashes. They encourage pulling because there is always a basic tension on the leash. Additionally, the sudden locking often results in an unpleasant jerk for the dog. They are only sensible if the dog has learned to stay within its range and reliably respond to stop signals. Then they can be a safe addition, for example, when hiking.
3 Tips for Better Leash Training for Dogs
- Stay consistent
Even small exceptions shape the dog. If you give in once, it immediately learns that pulling is worthwhile. - Train individually
Every dog is different–speed, motivation, and learning behavior determine the appropriate method. - Use positive reinforcement
Calm walking next to the human should always be rewarded, such as with treats or praise.
You can watch the entire interview with Katharina Marioth in the video.
About the Expert
Katharina Marioth is the founder of the Stadthundetraining brand and the KEML principle. She is a certified dog trainer and behavioral assessor for dangerous dogs in the state of Berlin. In her daily business, she works closely with veterinarians, scientists, and other specialists on dog-related topics. With her knowledge and skills, she secured the title of Dog Trainer of the Year 2023 in the Sat.1 show “The Dog Trainer Champion.”