Start teaching your dog to heel indoors by rewarding them for walking nicely by your side.
Step-by-Step Guide to Teaching Your Dog to Heel
Heeling is a valuable skill that teaches your dog to walk politely beside you, creating a more enjoyable and controlled walking experience. Here's how to teach your dog to heel:
1. Start Indoors
- Begin in a quiet, distraction-free environment, like your living room or hallway. This allows your dog to focus on you.
2. Choose a Side
- Decide which side you want your dog to heel on (traditionally the left). Be consistent.
3. Lure and Reward
- Hold a treat in your hand on the side you want your dog to heel.
- Say your dog's name and then the command "Heel."
- Lure your dog into the heel position (next to your leg on your chosen side).
- As soon as your dog is in the correct position, immediately mark the behavior with a clicker or a verbal marker like "Yes!" and give them the treat.
4. Short Walks and Reinforcement
- Take a few steps forward, keeping the treat near your dog's nose to encourage them to stay in the heel position.
- Continue to click/mark and reward every few steps they remain in the heel position.
5. Gradually Increase Distance and Time
- As your dog improves, gradually increase the distance and duration of your walks while heeling.
- Start fading the lure (the treat held near the nose) by intermittently rewarding them for staying in position. Increase the time between rewards.
6. Add Distractions
- Once your dog is reliably heeling indoors, start practicing in more distracting environments, like your backyard or a quiet park.
7. Use a Leash (Properly)
- When you transition to outdoor training, attach a leash. The leash should be loose when your dog is heeling correctly. If your dog pulls ahead, gently stop and redirect them back to the heel position. Avoid jerking the leash.
8. Be Consistent and Patient
- Consistency is key. Use the same commands and hand signals every time.
- Be patient and positive. Heeling takes time and practice. Keep training sessions short and fun.
9. Practice Makes Perfect
- Regular practice is essential. Aim for short, frequent training sessions rather than long, infrequent ones.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Dog pulls ahead | Stop immediately and say "No" or use another negative marker. Gently redirect your dog back to the heel position. Only continue walking when they are in the correct position. |
| Dog lags behind | Use a more enticing lure or reward to encourage them to keep pace. Make sure you are moving at a pace that is comfortable for your dog. |
| Dog gets distracted | Reduce distractions initially. Gradually introduce distractions as your dog improves. Use high-value treats or toys to keep their attention. |
| Dog doesn't understand | Break the exercise down into smaller steps. Focus on rewarding any movement toward the heel position. Ensure you are using clear and consistent commands. |
| Dog loses interest | Keep training sessions short and fun. Use a variety of rewards. End the session on a positive note. |
Remember to always use positive reinforcement methods and be patient with your dog. With consistent training, your dog will be heeling like a pro in no time.
