Why Some Dog Breeds Pull More Than Others

Not all dogs behave the same on a leash.

Some dogs seem to walk naturally beside their owners, while others pull forward with determination the moment the walk begins.

Much of this difference comes down to genetics and breed history.

Dogs Were Bred for Different Jobs

Many dog breeds were developed for specific working roles.

Some were bred to guard, others to herd livestock, and many to hunt or retrieve over long distances.

Breeds designed for endurance and movement often have strong motivation to move forward.

These breeds may include:

• retrievers
• pointers
• spaniels
• huskies
• shepherds

Their instincts encourage exploration and forward motion.

Energy Levels Play a Major Role

Dogs with higher energy levels often experience stronger excitement during walks.

For these dogs, the environment is full of stimulation — smells, sounds, movement and visual cues.

Each of these stimuli encourages the dog to move forward quickly.

When combined with leash restriction, pulling can easily become their natural way of exploring.

The Influence of Forward Drive

Some dogs have what trainers often call forward drive.

This describes a dog’s natural motivation to move ahead toward something interesting.

Forward-driven dogs are often enthusiastic walkers. They want to explore, investigate, and move quickly.

This enthusiasm can translate into strong pulling if guidance is unclear, particularly in forward-driven dogs that naturally want to move ahead.

Why Breed Traits Matter for Training

Understanding breed tendencies helps owners approach leash training more realistically.

Expecting a highly energetic working breed to walk calmly without training is similar to expecting a border collie to ignore movement.

Instead, training can focus on gradually teaching the dog how to manage excitement while still allowing exploration.

Tools That Support Strong Dogs

For strong or forward-driven breeds, equipment that improves communication can make walks easier to manage.

This is why some owners choose a figure-of-eight leash that helps them stay in control, while redirecting the dog’s focus and reduce pulling momentum.

Every Dog Can Learn

Even breeds known for strong pulling instincts can learn calmer walking habits with patience and consistent guidance.

The key is working with the dog’s natural instincts rather than constantly fighting against them.