Dog Pulls on Clothes During Walks? Try These Training Methods

Teach the 'Take' Command with Clothing

Start by teaching your dog to pick up and hold clothing items gently. Use old, expendable clothes like socks, shirts, or a worn skirt. Begin with the command “take” and gradually add context, such as “take the dress” or “take my pants.” Practice in a calm setting where your dog can focus. The goal is for your dog to pick up the item without play or aggression—this prevents dangerous tugging later.

If your dog pulls or tries to play with the clothing, use a firm “Uh-uh-uh” to stop the behavior, then cue “easy” to encourage gentler handling. This builds control and teaches your dog that calm actions lead to rewards.

Use 'Easy' to Calm Enthusiasm

The word “easy” is a powerful tool to reduce over-excitement during retrieval. When your dog grabs clothing too eagerly, say “easy” immediately. This signals that the behavior needs to slow down. Once your dog responds by handling the item gently, praise them enthusiastically and offer a treat.

This method, used by Mary with her golden retriever Sage, helps dogs learn that gentle, controlled actions are rewarded—while rough grabbing is corrected. Over time, your dog will associate “easy” with calm, purposeful behavior.

Practice Lifting Straight Up to Prevent Pulling

Teach your dog to lift the clothing straight up, not sideways or toward their body. This prevents them from pulling you off balance. When practicing, start with the item on the floor. Use a command like “take the dress” and guide your dog to lift the material vertically.

If your dog tries to pull the clothing away or drag it, say “Uh-uh-uh” and redirect. Praise and reward only when the item is lifted straight up and brought to you. This teaches a safe, predictable behavior that can later be applied during walks.

Gradually Build Up to Walking Practice

Once your dog reliably takes and lifts clothing on command, practice with the item on the floor while you’re standing. Drop the clothing, step into it, and ask your dog to “take the dress.” Now they must lift it higher to reach your hand.

This simulates real-life situations where your dog might grab your clothes during a walk. By training in stages—starting on the floor, then standing—you build confidence and control. Always reward calm, correct behavior with praise and treats.

Avoid Rewarding Pulling Behavior

Never give attention or rewards when your dog pulls on your clothes. Doing so reinforces the behavior. Instead, ignore the pull until your dog stops and calms down. Then, immediately reward the calm behavior with praise or a treat.

This principle applies to all training: only reward the behavior you want. If your dog pulls and you respond with attention, even negative attention, you’re teaching them that pulling works.