Lead Training Your Energetic Vizsla: A Guide for Busy Pet Owners

Sarah Tolliss
Sep 17
3 min read

Updated: Nov 3

Why Lead Training Is So Important for Vizslas

Vizslas are intelligent, athletic dogs with boundless energy. If not taught to walk calmly on a lead, they can develop habits like pulling, lunging, or weaving, which makes walks stressful. Good lead manners will help your Vizsla:

Stay safe near traffic, other dogs, and wildlife.
Conserve energy for exercise and play rather than battling the lead.
Build a stronger bond with you as their trusted guide.

If you’re based in East Horsley, West Horsley, or nearby Surrey villages, Happy Paws Horsley offers local dog walking services to support lead training and daily exercise.

Best Leads and Equipment for Vizslas

When it comes to choosing the right equipment for your Vizsla, consider the following:

Flat Collar or Harness: Many Vizsla owners prefer a well-fitted harness that gives more control and reduces strain on the neck.
Standard Dog Walking Lead: A 1.2–2m (4–6ft) lead is best for everyday walking and training.
Training Lead/Long Line: Great for practicing recall and allowing safe freedom in open spaces while still keeping control.

Training Steps for Calm Lead Walking

1. Start at Home or in the Garden

Practice in a low-distraction area before heading out. Encourage your Vizsla to walk beside you by rewarding calm behaviour with praise or treats.

2. Use Positive Reinforcement

Whenever your Vizsla walks calmly by your side or checks in with you, reward them immediately. Keep treats small and healthy to avoid overfeeding.

3. The “Stop & Go” Rule

If your Vizsla pulls, simply stop walking. Wait until the lead slackens, then continue. This teaches them that pulling gets them nowhere, while calm walking moves the walk forward.

4. Change Direction Often

Keep your Vizsla engaged by turning left, right, or walking in circles. It teaches them to focus on you, not just charge ahead.

5. Introduce the Training Lead

On open fields, attach a long line (10–15m) to their harness. Let your Vizsla explore, but practice recall by calling them back regularly and rewarding them. This helps bridge the gap between on-lead walks and safe off-lead freedom.

6. Consistency Is Key

At 8 months, your Vizsla is still learning. Daily practice, short sessions, and patience will build good habits for life.

Extra Tips for Puppy Lead Training

Keep walks short and engaging to avoid frustration.
Use toys or play as part of the reward system — Vizslas love interactive fun!
Don’t expect perfection straight away — teenage dogs test boundaries. Stay calm and consistent.

Understanding Your Vizsla’s Energy Levels

Vizslas are known for their high energy. It's essential to understand their needs. Regular exercise is crucial. This breed thrives on activity. A tired Vizsla is a happy Vizsla! Incorporate playtime and mental stimulation into their routine. Puzzle toys and training games can help keep their minds sharp.

Socialization Matters

Socializing your Vizsla is just as important as training. Expose them to different environments, people, and other dogs. This helps them become well-rounded pets. It can also ease their excitement during walks. A well-socialized dog is often calmer on a lead.

The Importance of Routine

Establishing a routine can significantly benefit your Vizsla. Regular walking times create predictability. This can help them understand when it’s time to be active and when to relax. Consistency in training sessions also reinforces good behaviour.

Final Thoughts

Walking an 8-month-old Vizsla on a lead takes patience, training, and the right tools, but the rewards are immense. Not only will your dog be safer and calmer, but walks will become a joy instead of a tug-of-war. With consistency and positive reinforcement, your Vizsla will soon learn that walking with you — not against you — is the best adventure of all.

For local support, Happy Paws Horsley provides dog walking and pet sitting in East & West Horsley and within a six-mile radius of Surrey — helping dogs like Vizslas burn energy, socialise safely, and enjoy structured walks.