Help! my dog is biting the lead while walking (why and how to fix it)

You’re all set for a lovely walk with your furry best friend. The sun is shining, birds are singing, and… chomp! Your dog grabs the lead like it’s a game of tug-of-war. Sound familiar?

Don’t worry — you’re not alone. Lead-biting is a common behaviour that many dogs display at some point, and the good news is, it can be gently and positively redirected. Let’s take a look at why dogs bite the lead, and most importantly, how you can fix it with calm, fun, and force-free methods.

Why Does My Dog Bite the Lead?

Before we dive into solutions, it helps to understand what’s going on in your pup’s head. Here are the most common reasons dogs bite the lead:

1. It’s Exciting!

For many dogs, walk time is the highlight of the day. All that energy and anticipation can bubble over — and grabbing the lead is one way to let it out.

2. They Think It’s a Game

If your dog has ever received attention (even unintentionally) when biting the lead, they might think it’s a game. Pulling, tugging, or even shouting can all reinforce the behaviour.

3. They’re Anxious or Overstimulated

Not all dogs bite the lead out of joy. Some do it as a coping mechanism when they’re overwhelmed or unsure about the environment.

4. They’re Bored

If the walk isn’t engaging enough, a dog might look for their own form of entertainment — which could include chomping on that convenient rope dangling right in front of them.

5. They’re Young

It is perfectly normal for a puppy up to about 6 months to chew and tug on a lead, puppies explore the world with their mouths. Some puppies naturally outgrow the behaviour.

How to Fix It — The Positive Way!

Here’s the golden rule: no yelling, no jerking, and no punishment. Dogs learn best when they feel safe, happy, and understood. Try these gentle, effective tips to curb the lead-chomping habit.

🦴 1. Bring a Toy to Redirect the Energy

If your dog loves to carry or chew, bring a favourite tug toy or ball on your walk. Offer it as soon as they start getting bouncy. You’re not punishing the lead biting — you’re giving them a better alternative.

Pro Tip: Reserve this toy only for walks so it stays exciting and special.

2. Stop and Stay Calm

When your dog bites the lead, stop walking without pulling or reacting dramatically. Wait quietly until they let go, then reward with praise or a treat, and continue. This teaches them that biting the lead = no walk, but calm behaviour = fun continues!

3. Reinforce Calm Behaviour with Treats

Carry small, high-value treats and reward your dog frequently before they get too worked up. This builds a habit of checking in with you and staying focused.

Try this: Ask for a “look” or “heel” every few steps and reward generously.

4. Add More Mental Stimulation

If your dog is biting the lead out of boredom, enrich their walk! Let them sniff (sniffing is mentally exhausting for dogs), practice a few simple cues, or change up the route to keep it interesting.

5. Use a Lead Made of Less ‘Fun’ Material

Sometimes the texture of the lead itself is part of the problem — leather or rope-style leads feel great on those chompers. Try switching to a smooth, flat nylon lead that’s less satisfying to chew.

Be Patient and Keep It Fun

Remember, behaviour change takes time — especially when the lead-biting has become a habit. But with consistency, patience, and plenty of positive reinforcement, your dog will learn that keeping their mouth off the lead leads to more fun, not less.

For more advice on lead manners contact Loopypaws or look at upcoming workshops.