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My dog chases bikes, joggers, and people on walks. How to stop?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Shih Tzu | Female | 1 year and 1 month old | 6 lbs

When walking her on leash she always wants to chase bicycles, run after joggers and chase people or pets. I have pulled on the leash with a firm "no or stop" but nothing works. She is one year old

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Mara Howard, DVM

Answered By Mara Howard, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 3rd, 2017

I'm sorry to hear Sofie is having leash issues. One option to decrease her behavior is when she starts, come to a dead stop and don't allow her any slack on the leash to go forward. Use a short four to five foot nylon leash, not an extendable one. Every time she exhibits this behavior, stop where you are and refuse to go further until she is calm again. With consistency, this can improve leash manners. You can also use a gentle leader or no pull harness concurrently. If the behavior is persistent, worsens or is non resolving I would recommend you reach out to her regular veterinarian or a veterinary behaviorist. Good luck!
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