What are essential leash training commands?
Written by
Victoria Hayes
Reviewed by
Prof. David Walsh, Ph.D.Essential leash training commands establish clear communication between dogs and handlers during walks. These commands direct behavior while creating behavioral focus and response. By mastering five basic commands, chaotic pulling turns into pleasant cooperative walks. Using these commands consistently helps to embed these behaviors into predictable patterns for dogs despite distractions.
"Let's Go" Movement Cue
- Initiate forward motion after stops or distractions
- Use shoulder tap before verbal cue during training
- Reward immediate response within 2 steps
- Practice from stationary positions initially
"This Way" Directional Change
- Signal 90° turns before changing path
- Start with exaggerated arm movements
- Reduce visual cues as verbal response strengthens
- Reward within 3 seconds of compliance
"Wait" Temporary Halt
- Pause movement at curbs or obstacles
- Build duration from 3 to 30 seconds gradually
- Use palm signal facing dog during training
- Release with "let's go" for clear transition
"Focus" Attention Redirection
- Regain eye contact amid distractions
- Start training with low-value distractions
- Pair with treat held near handler's eyes
- Gradually increase challenge levels
Training progression occurs in a specific order for best results: "let's go" and "wait" in the house first, and next outside. When you are well versed in walking in a straight line, add the command "this way". You can only introduce the word "focus" and the term "easy" once the first three commands are reliable. This is to help the dog increase its confidence by taking baby steps through training.
Delivery techniques for commands significantly affect effectiveness. Use a consistent tone when giving verbal commands, a cheerful tone for movement cues, and a quiet tone for halts. Combine the delivery of the command with hand signals in the initial training period. Space commands given from 10 to 15 seconds between cues to avoid confusion. Reward the animal for obeying a command within three seconds to build consistent associations of reinforcement with the action.
Utilize the command "easy" to slow your dog down during moments of excitement. Use gentle backward pressure on the leash as you say it, rewarding slower speeds immediately. At first, practice on low distraction walks. This teaches the dog impulse control to prevent it from pulling towards exciting sights or smells.
Read the full article: 7 Proven Steps for Leash Training Dogs
