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My dog won't walk on leash, he just sits. How do I train him?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Havanese | Male | unneutered | 9 months and 19 days old

Kiba started acting a bit difficult this past week. When he doesn't want to come during a walk, he just sits down and won't take a step. He barely comes for treats and I'm worried that he thinks that if he doesn't move, he'll get a treat. So what can I do to teach him to come when I want him to and not act like a moody teen? He's a cutie but this is pretty bad behaviour and I don't want to keep tugging on his leash like a madwoman

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lauren Jones VMD

Veterinarian

Published on March 16th, 2017

This type of behavior can be really frustrating! If you aren't already doing so, try walking Kiba on a harness and leash rather than a collar and leash so you aren't needing to pull on his neck. If he is willing to walk for a treat, try teaching him a "watch me" command so that he learns to keep his eyes on you and will follow your lead. In the beginning, reward him with a small high value (small piece of low-sodium deli meat, chicken, etc.) treat every time he looks at you and walks with you on a leash. Once he starts responding to the commands, stop giving treats every time he listens and begin only rewarding intermittently. Hope this helps!

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