Leash walking
How do I create distance from a dog my dog is reacting to on a walk?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Turn and walk briskly in the opposite direction, cross the street, or step behind a parked car or hedge as soon as you notice the other dog, ideally before your dog reacts rather than after. Practicing this move calmly at home first makes it faster and smoother when you actually need it on a walk.
Acting early makes the biggest difference
The earlier you spot a trigger and start increasing distance, the less arousal your dog builds before you move away, and a dog that is still under threshold is far easier to redirect than one that has already started barking and lunging.
Practical distance creating moves
A quick U turn, crossing to the opposite pavement, or using street furniture like a parked car as a visual barrier are all fast, low effort ways to add space. Practicing a smooth U turn in a calm setting, rewarding your dog for turning with you, makes the move feel natural rather than jerky when you need it for real.
Staying calm yourself
Dogs pick up on handler tension quickly, so moving with a steady, purposeful pace rather than a panicked yank on the leash helps keep your own body language calm, which in turn supports your dog staying calmer during the retreat.
Key takeaways
- Increase distance as early as possible, before your dog fully reacts to a trigger.
- A practiced U turn, crossing the street, or using a visual barrier are quick ways to add space.
- Rehearsing the U turn calmly at home makes it smoother to use during a real walk.
- Staying calm yourself helps your dog stay calmer during the retreat.