Leash Etiquette & Gentle Training Tips: Walking with Kindness and Confidence

Building Better Walks, One Step at a Time 

Walking your dog should feel like a shared rhythm, not a struggle. Whether you're guiding a curious pup or helping a reactive dog stay calm, the way you walk together can build trust, connection, and confidence on both ends of the leash. Dogs thrive on consistency and clear communication, making daily walks the perfect opportunity to reinforce both!

It all starts with comfort and control. A well-fitted harness helps prevent pulling and protects your dog’s neck, especially important for smaller breeds and flat-faced pups. Unlike collars, which can strain the throat or spine, harnesses distribute pressure evenly, giving you better control without causing discomfort. 

Puccissimé Leash Extensions

One of our favourite tools to make leash training easier is our Leash Extensions! Whether you're working with a pup who pulls or just want to give your dog a little more space to explore safely, these extensions are recommended!

Check out how they work in action in our quick demo:

https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Z-yuUpamTkE?si=GYXvf8wTjnLCVbw5

Reward Calm, Not Chaos

Instead of jerking the leash or raising your voice, try stopping movement when your dog pulls. Take a moment to breathe and show patience. When the leash loosens, reward with praise or a small treat. This teaches your dog positive reinforcement, where walking calmly keeps things moving.

Over time, your pup will begin to understand that calm, focused behavior leads to progress, ultimately turning everyday walks into peaceful, rewarding experiences for you both.

Quick tip: Try this rhythm on your next walk

- Stop walking the moment your dog pulls 

- Stand still, breathe, and wait 

- When the leash relaxes, praise and continue 

- Repeat consistently and gently



Short Leash, Big Impact

Aim for a loose but short leash. This gives your dog the freedom to explore within safe boundaries while allowing you to offer gentle redirection if needed. Avoid retractable leashes during training while convenient, they teach inconsistent leash tension and blur the rules you're trying to set.

For better leash handling, try:

- Fixed-length leashes (4ft–6ft) for control

- Holding the leash with both hands when needed 

- Avoiding tension unless necessary for safety 

- Walking with a steady pace and calm posture



Lead with Positivity

Dogs are incredibly intuitive. They read your tone, posture, and even your breathing. Bringing treats, patience, and a soft tone to your walk can go a long way.

Try these simple positive-reinforcement habits:

- Say their name, reward when they respond 

- Offer treats for calm walking beside you 

- Praise them for checking in eye contact 

- Keep your tone low and friendly 

- When you lead with calm, your dog is more likely to follow with trust.



Style Meets Intention

Whether it's a bold print collar or a perfectly matched leash and harness set, feeling good about how you and your pup step out together matters. When you’re confident in your gear, you walk with intention where that energy transfers straight down the leash.

At Puccissime, our gear is designed to:

- Support gentle handling and better posture

- Prevent neck strain or discomfort

- Help you feel stylish and empowered on every walk

- Gentle training isn’t just about results; it’s about the journey.



Style Meets Intention

Whether it's a bold print collar or a perfectly matched leash and harness set, feeling good about how you and your pup step out together matters. When you’re confident in your gear, you walk with intention, and that energy transfers straight down the leash.

At Puccissime, our gear is designed to:

- Support gentle handling and better posture 

- Prevent neck strain or discomfort 

- Help you feel stylish and empowered on every walk

Gentle training isn’t just about results; it’s about the journey. And with the right tools, that journey can be both beautiful and balanced.



Walk the Walk, With Us

Looking to enjoy calmer, more connected walks with your pup? Our latest guide shares gentle leash training tips to help you build better habits without the pulling, stress, or frustration. Discover how mindful handling and the right gear can turn everyday strolls into stylish, peaceful moments you both look forward to.

Overall, every walk is more than a routine a chance to bond, grow, and glow.