Building Connection, One Step at a Time
One of the most rewarding (and sometimes challenging!) parts of raising a Golden Retriever puppy is teaching them how to walk politely on a leash. As breeders, we often begin the foundation of leash manners early—but this training really continues in your home, and it’s all about consistency, patience, and connection.
Loose leash walking doesn’t mean perfect heel position—it means your puppy walks beside you without pulling, staying connected and responsive. This creates enjoyable walks for both of you and builds lifelong habits of attention and trust.
Here’s how we recommend starting loose leash walking using positive reinforcement and a strong human–dog relationship.
🐾 Why Loose Leash Walking Matters
Loose leash walking is about more than obedience—it’s a critical life skill. It sets the tone for your dog’s future behavior in public, ensures safe and enjoyable walks, and establishes a foundation for future work or training, including therapy dog certification.
A dog that can walk calmly beside you, respond to gentle guidance, and stay engaged is a dog that’s ready to go just about anywhere—especially into environments that require calmness, like hospitals, schools, or nursing homes.
🐶 Loose Leash Walking and Therapy Dog Work
As breeders of Golden Retrievers who are often destined for therapy dog roles, we can’t emphasize enough how vital loose leash walking is for this path. Therapy dogs must navigate unpredictable environments: tight hallways, crowded rooms, sudden noises, and rolling medical equipment. A dog that pulls, lunges, or is easily distracted simply won’t be comfortable—or safe—in those settings.
Practicing and mastering loose leash walking:
- Builds impulse control and focus
- Helps your dog feel secure and calm in new places
- Ensures your dog is manageable and welcome in public spaces
- Strengthens the dog–handler bond, which is at the heart of all successful therapy teams
If you’re interested in therapy work, consider loose leash walking your first big step toward that goal.
🦴 What You’ll Need
- A flat or martingale collar (or a properly fitted harness)
- A 4–6 foot leash (not retractable)
- High-value treats (small, soft, and irresistible)
- A quiet, distraction-free area to start
🧠 Step-by-Step: Teaching Loose Leash Walking
1. Start Indoors or in a Fenced Yard
Begin where your puppy feels safe. Clip on the leash, gather treats, and start walking slowly.
2. Mark and Reward Connection
Every time your puppy looks at you, walks beside you, or checks in—mark with a cheerful “yes!” or a click and offer a treat. Reinforce often in the beginning.
3. Use the “Let’s Go!” Cue
Pick a cue like “Let’s go!” when you begin walking. If your puppy follows, reward. This builds a positive association with walking near you.
4. Stop When They Pull
If your puppy pulls forward, stop walking immediately. Wait silently. When they return to your side or the leash loosens, mark and reward, then continue.
5. Keep Sessions Short and Fun
Aim for 5–10 minute sessions. Gradually add distractions as your puppy becomes more reliable.
✨ Tips from Breeders Who Train Goldens
- Be consistent: Reinforce the same rules each walk.
- Reward often: Especially at first, treat frequently to encourage the right behavior.
- Build up gradually: Don’t rush to high-distraction areas—success comes with time.
- Focus on connection: Eye contact and check-ins are golden—reward them!
Final Thoughts
Teaching your Golden Retriever puppy to walk nicely on leash is one of the most powerful ways to build trust, reinforce calm behavior, and prepare for life as a well-mannered companion. It’s not about control—it’s about communication.
And if therapy work is in your future, this skill becomes even more critical. A calm, confident dog on a loose leash is a dog who can bring joy and comfort wherever they go.
Start now, take it one step at a time, and enjoy the journey together.