Dog Training - Techniques for Teaching Dogs to Heel
Among the many commands you will want your dog to know is heeling. This is actually for a few different reasons. However, the most important reason for having a dog heel while walking with you is safety.
Walking with a dog that is uncontrollable on the leash can put you in danger of being hit by a passing vehicle or even falling and breaking a bone. Don't forget the possibility of your furry family member getting hit by a passing vehicle. However, a dog that walks well can lead to an enjoyable time with your pet. Here are some helpful ways to teach your dog how to heel on the leash.
Teaching your dog how to heel is not quite as complicated as you might think. You do however, need to show your dog that you are the boss and he or she needs to act according to your standards. Your dog should be able to learn this command and follow it in a fairly short period of time.
Just because this is an easy command for a dog to learn does not indicate that you will not need to be consistent. It is just as important that you reward your dog for the proper behavior. This can be with either praise, treats or both. Whatever your dog seems to respond to best.
Positive reinforcement is essential in training a dog. By acknowledging the behavior your dog does after you have given the command is a great way for the dog to distinguish what you want him to do from what you do not want him to do. By only praising him for doing what you want him to do and ignoring him when he does not do the required task he will soon only want your attention and be eager to please you.
Start off with your dog in a familiar location, such as your yard. Bring your dog outside with you on a short leash. It might also be helpful to have a pocket full of treats! Have your dog sit down beside you on whichever side you want your dog to walk on. Pull out a treat and let your dog smell it. Now you are ready to begin training. As you are taking a step say "heel." Your dog will likely have his eye on the treat and walk with you. If he begins to lose interest in the treat again say "heel." As he comes back to your side you can give the treat. This will let your dog know that if he wants the treat he needs to be at your side.
Continue this method and reward your dog with praise and treats. However, as your dog begins to fully connect with the command cut back on the treats. Try to use physical and verbal praise instead of the treat. However, continue to have the treat out for a few sessions of training and then you can keep it in your pocket.
Another technique that is used frequently is to use a longer leash and allow your dog a bit of freedom. Allow your dog to walk away a little and sternly say the command "heel." If your dog returns to you praise him. However if he continues on his way gently tug the leash and again command the dog to "heel." In the event the dog still does not understand what you are trying to teach him you might have to change the position of the leash. Instead of holding handle of the leash you should fold the leash in half. Take the two halves and loop them in front of the dog. Hold them in one hand, this will give the dog less control and make it harder to pull you. Begin walking again with the command "heel." You can also use the treats as a way of gaining your dogs attention.
As soon as your dog begins to understand what is expected of him and this word can be associated by your dog with an action it is time for you to give allow more slack in the leash. However, if your dog begins to pull again you should immediately go back to the beginning of this method. This will reinforce your need for the dog to do as you want and not as he wants. You will be showing your dog that it is your way or your way. There is no room for his way!