How to Train a Labrador to Heel

Start when your dog is a puppy for the best results.

Labradors are a very high energy, loving, intelligent breed. They have a reputation of being hyperactive or out of control, but the lack of control tends to come from owners who do not understand the need that Labs have to perform a useful task in the home. Training a Lab to perform tasks like heeling, walking at your side and sitting on command can give them tasks to help them feel fulfilled and help them live calmer, happier lives.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Leash
• Treats

1. Get his attention, then raise the treat up high until he sits.

   Teach your Lab puppy to sit on command. Do this by getting your puppy's attention with a treat, and slowly raise the treat over his head. The dog will sit as he extends to get the treat. Repeat the sit training until your Lab can sit reliably on command.

2. Use a treat to lure your puppy around your side. Make a wide loop starting at your dog's nose (your dog should be in front of you), out to your side with your arm fully extended, then around to your side.

3. Tell your dog to sit as he comes even with your left side, then praise him for a good "heel."

4. This dog is walking in the heel position.

   Repeat the process. Your puppy should begin to sit without being told after he is guided to your side with the treat.

Tips & Warnings

• "Heel" is always to the left of the trainer. Use a different command if you want to train your puppy to sit on your right side also. (CCI puppy raisers use the command "side" for their right side.)

• Once you get your dog heeling on command, you can begin teaching them to walk in the heel position.

• Don't repeat a command multiple times, or your puppy will learn that they do not have to obey on the first command. Instead, give the command, then say "no" and gently guide them into position if they do not obey.