Leash walking
How do I stop a big dog from pulling me over on walks?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
For safety first, use a front clip harness rather than a collar, which cuts a large dog's leverage considerably, and keep the leash short enough, around 1 to 1.2 metres of working length, that a sudden lunge cannot build up momentum before you feel it. Alongside equipment, teach an emergency stop cue by rewarding your dog heavily every time it sits automatically when you plant your feet.
Why size changes the equation
A 40 kg dog moving suddenly can generate enough force to unbalance an adult easily, so equipment choices matter more here than with a small dog. A back clip harness or flat collar gives a large, strong dog full use of its body weight, while a front clip design interrupts that by turning the dog sideways when it surges.
Building a reliable emergency stop
Practice in a calm setting first: stop walking, wait for your dog to look at you or sit, then reward generously and continue. Repeating this 10 to 15 times over a week builds a habit that holds up better under real distraction, such as a squirrel or another dog appearing suddenly.
When to bring in extra help
If your dog is significantly stronger than you and pulling is a daily safety concern, a double ended leash clipped to both a front clip harness and a back up collar, plus a few sessions with a qualified trainer, is a reasonable and common solution rather than something to be embarrassed about.
Key takeaways
- A front clip harness reduces a large dog's pulling leverage more than a collar or back clip harness.
- Keep the working leash length short, around 1 to 1.2 metres, for faster control.
- Practice an emergency stop cue in calm settings 10 to 15 times before relying on it near distractions.
- A trainer session or double ended leash setup is a sensible option for genuinely strong dogs.