Leash walking
How do I stop my dog stopping to pee every few steps on a walk?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
If your dog is genuinely marking rather than emptying its bladder, teach a keep moving cue and reward walking past 3 or 4 potential marking spots in a row before allowing a stop. If the stopping is sudden and new, especially with straining, frequent small amounts, or visible discomfort, it is worth ruling out a urinary issue with your vet before treating it purely as a training problem. Most healthy adult dogs can comfortably walk past several interesting spots once taught to.
Teaching a keep moving cue
On a familiar route, say a consistent word as you walk briskly past a spot your dog usually stops at, rewarding with a treat or praise once you have moved 5 or 6 meters past it without stopping. Repeating this at 3 or 4 spots per walk over about 2 weeks usually reduces unnecessary stopping noticeably.
Ruling out a medical cause first
A dog that suddenly starts stopping to strain frequently, especially producing very little urine each time or seeming uncomfortable, may have a urinary tract issue rather than a habit worth training away.
Key takeaways
- Teach a specific keep moving cue and reward walking past known marking spots.
- Sudden, frequent straining with little urine is a reason to check with a vet, not just train through.
- Most dogs reduce excessive stopping within about 2 weeks of consistent practice.