Dear Dog Trainer,
My dog walks beautifully in the backyard. The second we hit the sidewalk, she becomes a sled dog. We’ve tried harnesses. We’ve tried “heel.” I’ve tried begging. Am I doing something wrong, or is my dog auditioning for the Iditarod?
— Dragged Down the Block in Despair*
Dear Dragged Down the Block,
Honestly? If your dog walks beautifully in the backyard — you’re doing better than most. That’s not nothing. That’s a win.
The sidewalk just comes with a *whole* new set of distractions. Squirrels. Wind. Kids on scooters. Basically, it’s a sensory buffet for your dog.
Here’s what I like to do: I start *in the house*.
Yep. My dogs wear a leash inside so I can practice walking from room to room together.
I ask for attention. I reward for being near me — usually with kibble or a small treat. Basically, I’m teaching them that being next to me pays better than charging ahead.
Then? Backyard. Get success there. Then driveway.
*Just* the driveway. No sidewalk yet.
I want my dog to learn how to *watch the world* without feeling like every movement means “GO TIME.” Because here’s the thing — walks aren’t just for burning energy. They’re for *practicing skills*.
And if your dog doesn’t yet have the skills to handle the sidewalk? You’re not behind. You’re being smart. You’re allowed to hit pause on walks until your dog’s ready.
There are so many other ways to exercise their body and their brain in the meantime. (And no, dragging you through the neighborhood is not one of them.)
— Your Friendly Dog Trainer