The Treat Magnet Trick: A Loose Leash Walking Hack That Actually Works

If walks feel like you’re being dragged by a furry freight train, this one’s for you.

Teaching your dog to walk nicely on leash doesn’t have to be a battle of wills or a test of your shoulder strength. In fact, one of my favourite leash training hacks is stupid simple AND surprisingly effective.

It’s called the Treat Magnet Trick, and here’s how it works:

🪙 Step-by-Step:

1. Grab a handful of tasty treats.

   Think: soft, smelly, and easy to eat while moving (boiled chicken or Rollover works great.

   
   

2. Place the treat right in front of your dog’s nose.

   Don’t feed it yet—just let them follow it like a magnet.

   
   

3. Start walking slowly.

   As long as they’re following calmly beside you, keep the treat right there.

   
   

4. Mark (“yes!” or click) and feed.

   Every few steps, give them a piece. You’re literally shaping the behaviour you want… walking next to you with a loose leash.

   
   

5. Repeat. Repeat. Repeat.

   You’ll start to see your dog naturally stick closer to you even when the treat isn’t there. That’s your cue to fade the magnet and move to random rewards.

🧠 Why This Works

Your dog isn’t pulling to make your life hard, they’re just excited. The Treat Magnet creates a new habit: walking by your side gets them where they want to go and pays off.

It’s also a great way to reset leash manners after a break or build engagement in busy areas.

Bonus: it’s humane, it builds connection, and it gives your dog a reason to choose you over distractions.

🐾 Want more hacks like this?

This is just a taste of what I teach in Leash Legends—my 6-session walking program that helps you ditch the frustration and finally enjoy your walks again.

If you’re ready to feel in sync with your dog (instead of being stuck in a game of tug-of-war), you know where to find me.

🔗 www.idealcanine.ca