Logan, you KNOW I am far from perfect but I had heard on a training show that they can feel the tightness and pressure you put on a leash, even if it's the slightest hint of nervousness. So if I see people(and he loves to walk at night when it's dark)I either say "Good Boy, Let's go" or "This Way" and he may look at them for a second, then goes on sniffing. I try very very hard to hold the leash as loose as possible yet with the ability to grab on tighter. Believe me, I am fully awake and alert when I walk him. I'm not always successful-there are teenage kids on our block that ride bikes in groups or play football, basketball and also a school yard. They call him "lion dog" since his body looks like a lioness and they are petrified of him with good reason. Luckily he know most people on our block and ignores them cause they are suppose to be there but if you visit or deliver..it's barks away!