Be mindful where you look (and how you look) when walking your dog.

A pack leader chooses his direction and leads by pointing with his nose... It's that simple.  He doesn't wait to make sure his pack is following.  They just follow.

Think about a mother duck swimming at the front of a line of baby ducklings.  Is she looking back at them, or are they looking at her?  Is she negotiating with them:  "ok ducklings... I know the water is warm here and that you're having fun but let's go already"?  Or do her babies simply follow her?

I see many dog owners staring at their dogs when they're walking.... it's like they're beaming love out of their eyes straight into their dogs.  These are also the same owners who have trouble walking their dogs.  Their dogs pull... they sniff forever and never come... they lie down on the walk... etc.

From a dog's perspective, I imagine it could be a little confusing when your human stares at you while walking.  For starters, humans are the natural leaders of the pack so your dog is likely wondering why you look at him instead of scanning the environment to ensure safety or to set the direction.   Instead our dogs think we're deferring to them for leadership because we're looking in their direction...

Getting your dog to follow you is simpler than you think... but you need to lead with actions, not with words... Firmly grab the leash, turn your nose and shoulders in the direction you want to head in, and wait for some eye contact (or just say 'let's go')... and make sure you go.  Your dog will follow.

Remember... when you're holding the leash you and your dog are a team.  Be compassionate... there's no need to yank the leash or get frustrated.   Be calm and direct.