For dog training businesses
Explore the spotlight Spotlight your business here
Put your training business in front of dog owners looking for their next step.
Leash training
Build leash skills and a more comfortable walking routine. Choose your location to find a trainer near you.
Leash training: what to look for
Browse matching businessesLeash training teaches your dog how to move with you without constant tension while you learn to guide walks clearly and safely. The practical goal for many households is a relaxed leash, room to sniff and an easier way to pass everyday distractions. That is different from asking for a precise heel throughout an entire walk.
Before choosing lessons, identify the main challenge. Does your dog pull toward smells, stop and refuse to move, bite the leash or bark and lunge at other dogs? These patterns may need different support. Describe where the behavior happens and what changes when you walk in a quieter location.
Questions to ask before booking
- Do you practice in realistic walking environments?
- What equipment and handling will I be asked to use?
Explore the guide8 sections
Start in a place where your dog can learn
A busy sidewalk asks your dog to cope with smells, movement, noise and lead handling at the same time. Begin practice in a quiet, safe space where your dog can notice you. Reward a comfortable position near you, then try a few steps together. Short successful stretches are a useful foundation for a longer walk.
If your dog is new to a harness or leash, give them time to become comfortable wearing suitable equipment before expecting polished movement. Check fit and discuss any rubbing, avoidance or difficulty moving. An equipment change can affect handling, but no harness or collar automatically teaches the walking skill you want.
Leash training for a puppy or new dog
Before you start walking farther from home, let the puppy become comfortable with equipment and a few easy steps in a safe area. Teach your dog to walk toward you and beside you with rewards before adding the full distraction of a street. A new dog may also need time to learn your pace and handling even if they have worn a leash before.
During dog training practice, hold the leash so you can manage it without tangling or maintaining unnecessary tension. Ask the instructor to demonstrate a safe grip and suitable length for your setting. Loose leash walking means the dog has clear guidance without constant pressure; it does not require the dog to stare at your face throughout the outing.
Reward the walking you want to see
Notice when the leash is relaxed and reinforce that moment. Reward delivery near the place you want the dog to walk can make the exercise clearer. Keep the first repetitions easy enough that the dog can remain connected without a constant stream of cues. Your trainer should watch your pace, reward hand and leash length as well as the dog.
Do not wait for a long perfect stretch before acknowledging improvement. At first, one or two relaxed steps may be the right starting point. Gradually increase how far you travel between rewards while preserving the quality of the walking. Access to a suitable sniffing spot can become part of the reward plan when the dog can approach without dragging you there.
What to do when the leash tightens
Ask your trainer for a consistent response that fits your dog and environment. In a quiet practice setup, you may pause, regain a manageable position or change direction before trying an easier stretch. Avoid turning the lesson into repeated jerks on the leash. The important part is teaching which movement allows the walk to continue.
If you are stopping every step, the setup may be too difficult or the reward too infrequent. Move to a quieter area, reduce the distance you expect or separate a training session from the practical need to reach a toilet area. Constant failure does not provide useful practice. A trainer can help identify whether pace, distraction, handling or discomfort is the main obstacle.
Make room for sniffing and ordinary dog behavior
Loose-leash walking does not require your dog to ignore every smell. Decide when you want a short period beside you and when there is room to explore safely. A clear release cue or consistent routine can help distinguish those activities. Choose a leash length and location that allow sniffing without creating a hazard for other people.
Crossing a road, navigating a doorway and moving along a narrow path may require different handling from walking in an open area. Practice those transitions separately. For example, a brief pause before crossing can be taught without turning the whole outing into a formal obedience exercise. Your walking plan should fit the routes you actually use.
Passing dogs and people safely
Plan distance before a pass becomes crowded. You may need to cross the road, wait in a wider area or change direction. Practice attention and movement away from distractions when the dog is still able to engage. A dog who is already barking and lunging intensely needs the situation made easier, not a more demanding heel cue.
Tell a prospective trainer about reactivity, fear or any bite history before joining a walking class. A dedicated behavior plan or private sessions may be more appropriate than a standard leash-manners course. Ask how training walks manage narrow spaces, unexpected dogs and differences in the teams' abilities. Other members of the public should not become unplanned training helpers.
Choose lessons that coach your handling
Private outdoor sessions can focus on your neighborhood's real challenges, while a group class may provide controlled distractions. Ask where the first session takes place and how the difficulty increases. If your dog walks well for the instructor but pulls with you, you need direct coaching on the transfer rather than simply a demonstration of what the dog can do.
Other caregivers should learn the same basic plan. Discuss how family members, walkers or sitters handle the leash and which routines they can realistically follow. For households with more than one dog, separate practice may be needed before walking them together. Each dog should understand the skill before you add the distraction and handling demands of a second leash.
Track progress on specific sections of a walk
Pick a manageable reference point, such as the path from your door to the first quiet corner. Note the conditions and how much support the dog needed. Extend practice to another section when the first is easier. A route with fewer distractions is a different challenge from the same route during the busiest part of the day.
Review sudden changes in willingness to walk or apparent discomfort with your veterinarian. For ordinary training setbacks, identify what changed and rebuild at an easier level. Useful progress may be a looser leash for part of the outing, a smoother turn away or better recovery after a distraction, rather than an immediate transformation of every walk.
4,714 businesses
Refreshing results…
Make Your Dog Epic
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Make Your Dog Epic Tulsa Dog Training offers a wide range of services! We are the only training service in the state that charges based on RESULTS not number of…Read in fullShow less
Make Your Dog Epic Tulsa Dog Training offers a wide range of services! We are the only training service in the state that charges based on RESULTS not number of lessons or length of time. We can help with all things dog training! You can also hire us to come do events for you! we provide halftime show entertainment and professional sporting events or events as small as birthday parties! No matter how big or small your event is we can do it! No matter how big or small or dog behavioral issues are we can fix them! We bring revolutionary dog training directly to your home!
- Behavior consultation
- Crate training
- Leash training
All Dogs Unleashed Dog Training Dallas
Carrollton, Texas
Building better behaviors takes expertise, and All Dogs Unleashed is your dedicated dog trainer in Carrollton, TX. Our state-of-the-art facility specializes in…Read in fullShow less
Building better behaviors takes expertise, and All Dogs Unleashed is your dedicated dog trainer in Carrollton, TX. Our state-of-the-art facility specializes in two-week board-and-train programs, creating lasting obedience and confidence. We also provide boarding, and training services seven days a week for maximum convenience. Expert trainers work with dogs of all breeds throughout Dallas and the surrounding areas. Our safe and engaging environment combines professional expertise with personalized attention to deliver reliable results. Whether addressing specific challenges or building foundational skills, we provide effective, results-focused training. Call (972) 484-3647 to book your dog's program today!
- Behavior consultation
- Canine Good Citizen preparation
- House training
Maximum Canine
Deer Park, New York
Maximum Canine is Long Island’s premier lifestyle center in Deer Park & Riverhead for dog training, behavior consulting, canine fitness, sport development, and…Read in fullShow less
Maximum Canine is Long Island’s premier lifestyle center in Deer Park & Riverhead for dog training, behavior consulting, canine fitness, sport development, and natural dog nutrition. Built on our four pillars Behavior, Sport, Health, and Fitness, we offer group classes, private lessons, board & train, obedience training, reactivity support, and working dog programs. Our certified dog trainers help correct behavior problems and prepare dogs for a balanced lifestyle. Our full retail shop offers everything you need, Anita’s Pure Nutrition raw dog food, supplements, natural treats, and premium training gear. From puppyhood to senior living, we provide lifetime support through expert education, personalized training, and a strong community.
- Behavior consultation
- Canine Good Citizen preparation
- House training
DogiZone
Rockville, Maryland
Welcome to Rockville’s award-winning spot for happy, healthy dogs! From training to daycare, boarding to grooming, we bring out the best in your dog. Tailored care…Read in fullShow less
Welcome to Rockville’s award-winning spot for happy, healthy dogs! From training to daycare, boarding to grooming, we bring out the best in your dog. Tailored care for every breed and age, because a well-behaved dog makes life even more fun!
- Leash training
- Obedience training
- Puppy training
Pavlov Dog Training - Denver
Denver, Colorado
Pavlov Dog Training is unique in that we are fluent in traditional training and contemporary training. Offering private dog training and…Read in fullShow less
Pavlov Dog Training is unique in that we are fluent in traditional training and contemporary training. Offering private dog training and board-and-train.
- Behavior consultation
- Crate training
- House training
Tip Top K9 Tulsa Dog Training
Tulsa, Oklahoma
Dog Training for clients in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area. We do obedience, off leash obedience and manners. We help clients fix and manage aggression and anxiety as well…Read in fullShow less
Dog Training for clients in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area. We do obedience, off leash obedience and manners. We help clients fix and manage aggression and anxiety as well as help with potty training. If you are in the Tulsa, Oklahoma area and looking for a dog trainer give us a call today. Your first lesson is only $1.00!
- Behavior consultation
- House training
- Leash training
K-9 Specialist | Dog Trainer
Miami, Florida
Dennis Urrutia, a highly acclaimed celebrity dog behaviorist and trainer, has made a profound and enduring impact on the United States with his exemplary expertise.…Read in fullShow less
Dennis Urrutia, a highly acclaimed celebrity dog behaviorist and trainer, has made a profound and enduring impact on the United States with his exemplary expertise. Through appearances on prestigious platforms such as ABC News, Good Morning America, Telemundo Miami, and Univision, Dennis’s television presence has not only captivated the nation but has also reached a vast international audience, numbering in the millions across a hundred countries. Having been born in New York and subsequently relocating to the vibrant locale of Miami Beach, Florida in 1991, Dennis boasts a diverse background that contributes to his success.
- Behavior consultation
- Leash training
- Obedience training
Home Dog Training
Rockwall, Texas
Most people don't call because their dog can't sit. They call because the walk has become something they dread and the front door has become an event. HOME Dog…Read in fullShow less
Most people don't call because their dog can't sit. They call because the walk has become something they dread and the front door has become an event. HOME Dog Training is a small training practice in Rockwall. Charles, Laura, and Wyatt are the trainers here , the same hands on every dog, start to finish. No staff, no handoffs. We cap at seven dogs at a time and train in a home, not a facility. We build four things, in this order: Habits, Obedience, Manners, Engagement. There is a big difference between a dog obeying a command and a dog that didn't need one. Clarity, not pressure. Training that expands your dog's world instead of shrinking it. Serving the Rockwall area and North & East Dallas areas.
- Behavior consultation
- Canine Good Citizen preparation
- Leash training
Team SamIvy
Tampa, Florida
We empower dog parents! If you are struggling with your dog's behavior, our team of expert dog behavior coaches will guide you to peace and harmony with your dog.…Read in fullShow less
We empower dog parents! If you are struggling with your dog's behavior, our team of expert dog behavior coaches will guide you to peace and harmony with your dog. Learn how to build a new, better relationship with your dog.
- Behavior consultation
- Crate training
- Leash training
Off Leash K9 Training Cincinnati
Loveland, Ohio
Our Dog Obedience Training is globally recognized. Our success rate is impeccable, and our methods are safe and…Read in fullShow less
Our Dog Obedience Training is globally recognized. Our success rate is impeccable, and our methods are safe and effective.
- Behavior consultation
- Crate training
- House training
Tip Top K9
Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Welcome to Tip Top K9, OKC's highest-rated dog trainers! We transform aggressive, anxious, and disobedient dogs into well-behaved companions. Whether your dog is…Read in fullShow less
Welcome to Tip Top K9, OKC's highest-rated dog trainers! We transform aggressive, anxious, and disobedient dogs into well-behaved companions. Whether your dog is jumping, pulling on leash, or showing aggression, our proven methods deliver real results within 2-4 weeks. Choose from our intensive Doggy Boot Camp at our Oklahoma City facility, personalized in-home training, or lifetime group classes. We specialize in obedience training, aggressive dog rehabilitation, and puppy training for all breeds - Pitbulls, Labs, and more. From basic manners to advanced off-leash control, we help Oklahoma City families enjoy their dogs more! Our certified trainers solve leash pulling, potty training, anxiety, and behavioral issues fast. Call Us Today!
- Behavior consultation
- House training
- Leash training
Make Your Dog Epic
Owasso, Oklahoma
"Make Your Dog Epic Dog Training Owasso has 20+ years of experience in helping grow businesses, yet we have found helping folks like you to not be held hostage by…Read in fullShow less
"Make Your Dog Epic Dog Training Owasso has 20+ years of experience in helping grow businesses, yet we have found helping folks like you to not be held hostage by your dogs is among the most rewarding of all the things we do. What is it that makes Our Dog Training Owasso System different? When scheduling your first training lesson with Make Your Dog Epic Dog Training Owasso, you can count on your first lesson always being just 50 cents, which doesn’t even make sense unless we can WOW you, and that is exactly what we do. When that first training lesson is over we sit down to help you find the right packaging option that fits within your budget and the dog training Owasso goals for your dog."
- Behavior consultation
- Crate training
- House training
Deer Creek Canine Resort and Academy
Bel Air, Maryland
Opening its doors in 2018, Deer Creek Canine Resort and Academy provides a comprehensive approach to professional dog training. Located in Bel Air, our tailored…Read in fullShow less
Opening its doors in 2018, Deer Creek Canine Resort and Academy provides a comprehensive approach to professional dog training. Located in Bel Air, our tailored programs range from fundamental puppy training and obedience to advanced behavioral modification for issues such as aggression and anxiety. Led by our dedicated head trainer, our experienced team offers a variety of training formats, including private lessons, group classes, and immersive training experiences, all designed to achieve lasting results. We are dedicated to helping you and your canine companion build a confident and harmonious relationship.
- Behavior consultation
- Leash training
- Obedience training
All Dogs Unleashed
Kansas City, Missouri
All Dogs Unleashed is a Professional Dog Training Company who specializes in our Boarding and Training services as well as One-on-One Private…Read in fullShow less
All Dogs Unleashed is a Professional Dog Training Company who specializes in our Boarding and Training services as well as One-on-One Private Training.
- Crate training
- House training
- Leash training
Petco Dog Training
Portage, Michigan
Dog Training at Petco in Portage provides group and private classes built around positive reinforcement and real-life skills. Located inside the Petco pet store in…Read in fullShow less
Dog Training at Petco in Portage provides group and private classes built around positive reinforcement and real-life skills. Located inside the Petco pet store in Portage, experienced trainers help pets and pet parents build confidence, improve communication and support good behavior through structured training programs designed for everyday success.
- House training
- Leash training
- Puppy training
Rob's Dogs (Dog Training)
Phoenix, Arizona
At Rob's Dogs, our professional dog trainers absolutely LOVE dogs! Working with and understanding dog behavior has always been a passion of ours. We offer private dog…Read in fullShow less
At Rob's Dogs, our professional dog trainers absolutely LOVE dogs! Working with and understanding dog behavior has always been a passion of ours. We offer private dog training classes where we show you how to train and work with your dog. Or let us do all the work for you with our highly-effective, board and train program where your dog stays with us and we train them for you. When you pick them up we'll show you how to maintain the training. We are more than just another obedience school. Whether you have an adult dog or a puppy, we can also help eliminate bad behaviors, anxiety and other issues when you aren't around. The best time to train your dog was yesterday, the second best time is now! Call us and get the "ball rolling" TODAY!
- Crate training
- House training
- Leash training
Petco Dog Training
Puyallup, Washington
Dog Training at Petco in Puyallup provides group and private classes built around positive reinforcement and real-life skills. Located inside the Petco pet store in…Read in fullShow less
Dog Training at Petco in Puyallup provides group and private classes built around positive reinforcement and real-life skills. Located inside the Petco pet store in Puyallup, experienced trainers help pets and pet parents build confidence, improve communication and support good behavior through structured training programs designed for everyday success.
- House training
- Leash training
- Puppy training
Unleashed Academy
Spokane Valley, Washington
At Unleashed Academy, our dog trainers are passionate about teaching dog owners how to strengthen the bond with their canine companions through balanced, commonsense…Read in fullShow less
At Unleashed Academy, our dog trainers are passionate about teaching dog owners how to strengthen the bond with their canine companions through balanced, commonsense training techniques. Located in Spokane County, WA, our academy is dedicated to providing comprehensive and personalized training solutions for dogs of all ages, sizes, and breeds. Whether you have a mischievous puppy or an adult dog with behavioral issues, we have the expertise and experience to help you learn how to effectively communicate with your dog for a lifetime of success.
- Behavior consultation
- House training
- Leash training
Fantastic Fido's
St Joseph, Missouri
Guilt free boarding, grooming, doggie daycare, doggie day school, & training.
- Crate training
- House training
- Leash training
Noble Beast Dog Training
Denver, Colorado
Noble Beast Dog Training is Denver's relationship-first dog training company and one of Denver's 110 Legacy Businesses , the only dog training company on that list.…Read in fullShow less
Noble Beast Dog Training is Denver's relationship-first dog training company and one of Denver's 110 Legacy Businesses , the only dog training company on that list. For 18 years we have helped thousands of Denver families meet training goals and live harmoniously with their dogs through positive relationship focused and humane, science-backed methods. No e-collars, prong collars, or choke chains , ever. We specialize in dog/dog socialization via our Camp B.A.R.K. & Playful Pup programs, reactivity and aggression via our Prickly Pooch courses, beginner thru advanced obedience via private in-home, group, and virtual services, and separation anxiety support. Find out why Denver dog owners have trusted Noble Beast for 18 years.
- Behavior consultation
- Canine Good Citizen preparation
- House training
Off Leash K9 of Northern Virginia
Woodbridge, Virginia
Off Leash K9 Training in Northern Virginia, VA, offers expert dog training services, including Advanced Dog Training, Dog Obedience, Private Dog Training, and Dog…Read in fullShow less
Off Leash K9 Training in Northern Virginia, VA, offers expert dog training services, including Advanced Dog Training, Dog Obedience, Private Dog Training, and Dog Behavior Training. Our experienced trainers specialize in resolving behavior issues such as reactivity and aggression through proven techniques. Whether you need Reactive Dog Training, a Dog Boot Camp, or Puppy Training, we tailor programs to fit your dog's unique needs. We emphasize off-leash obedience, ensuring your dog remains well-behaved in any environment. Our commitment is to transform your dog into a confident, well-mannered companion, all while strengthening the bond between you and your pet.
- Behavior consultation
- Crate training
- Leash training
Mango Dogs Carolinas
Charlotte, North Carolina
We are dog trainers driven with one purpose. Help dog owners & families solve their dogs issues with real results! My first dog Zezu was a huge pain, and no one could…Read in fullShow less
We are dog trainers driven with one purpose. Help dog owners & families solve their dogs issues with real results! My first dog Zezu was a huge pain, and no one could train him to stop being aggressive toward other dogs & people,"come" back when he was off a leash, and walk him around places I loved going to. I became a dog trainer to help others in the Charlotte area solve major issues & trust their dogs again. Now, we get to help people who are in need of actual solutions with hard to train dogs. We don't provide band-aids. Contact us today, We would love to help you.
- Leash training
- Puppy training
- Socialization
Unleash Fido
Jacksonville, Florida
Unleash Fido is a professional dog-training facility serving Jacksonville, Florida, and surrounding communities. We offer puppy training, obedience training, private…Read in fullShow less
Unleash Fido is a professional dog-training facility serving Jacksonville, Florida, and surrounding communities. We offer puppy training, obedience training, private lessons, board-and-train programs, advanced off-leash training, and behavior modification for dogs struggling with reactivity, aggression, anxiety, resource guarding, and other challenging behaviors. Every program is customized to the dog and owner, with practical training at our facility and in real-world environments. Our experienced trainers focus on clear communication, dependable obedience, improved confidence, and lasting results that owners can continue at home. Contact us to schedule a free evaluation.
- Behavior consultation
- Leash training
- Obedience training
Petco Dog Training
Las Vegas, Nevada
Dog Training at Petco in Las Vegas provides group and private classes built around positive reinforcement and real-life skills. Located inside the Petco pet store in…Read in fullShow less
Dog Training at Petco in Las Vegas provides group and private classes built around positive reinforcement and real-life skills. Located inside the Petco pet store in Centennial Hills, experienced trainers help pets and pet parents build confidence, improve communication and support good behavior through structured training programs designed for everyday success.
- House training
- Leash training
- Puppy training
Frequently asked questions
More detail to help you choose and prepare.
Is loose-leash walking the same as heel?
No. Loose-leash walking generally means moving without constant tension, with some flexibility in position. Heel is a more specific position beside the handler. Ask which skill a course teaches.
What equipment stops pulling?
Equipment can affect fit, comfort and handling, but the walking behavior still needs to be taught. Ask a trainer to assess your setup and explain how rewards, practice and management work together.
Why does my dog walk nicely in class but pull outside?
The environment and reinforcement opportunities are different. Smells, routes and moving distractions can be harder than the class setup. Rebuild the skill in an easier outdoor location and increase difficulty gradually.
Can I leash-train two dogs together?
It is often easier to teach each dog separately first. Walking together adds distraction and handling demands. A trainer can help you decide when to combine practice and how to manage different walking needs.
Further reading: RSPCA: Teaching loose-lead walking