How to Train Your Dog To Walk Properly On A Leash

Heeling means having a dog that doesn't walk or pull you down the street. Heeling is having your dog walk on your left side with his head next to your thigh. The whole idea with heeling is so your dog walks when you do and stops when you stop walking. When its done correctly you will have many enjoyable outings with your pal.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    

   Because heeling does not conform to a dogs natural instinct, he must be taught to do this with patience and repetition. Do not feed your dog before the training session, otherwise he may be too sluggish to respond properly. Limit each session to no more than 15 minutes. Do not have any more than 2 of these 15 minute sessions per day with at least an hour in between them. Begin with your dog in the sit position with him on your left side. You should use a 6 foot leash and hold it in your right hand. Both arms should hang loose and be unbent. Allow 2 or 3 feet of slackened leash to drape across the knees. Do not hold the leash with both hands. You won't be able to jerk the leash properly unless your right hand is by your side. Once you are in this correct position give the command by using the dogs name followed by the command word of "heel".

2. 
    

   Start walking beginning with your left foot. Allow several inches of slack in the leash. The dog's head should be even with your left thigh. Whenever the dog begins to walk out of position, give the leash a corrective jerk and give the command of "heel" again. Be sure to make your command voice an authoritative sounding one by lowering your tone. When you stop, the dog does as well and goes into the "sit" position. You will give the "sit" command in a firm and lowered tone of your voice with a slight tug on the tightened leash.

3. Have a few of these sessions with getting the dog used to hearing the command word of "heel". Also he should get acquainted with being praised for when he doesn't try to run ahead of you or moves away from your side, by saying something like "Good dog!" Its necessary the tone of your voice changes to a higher pitched one with a level of excitement when praising your pet. Also give your dog a friendly pat letting him know he has pleased you. A small training treat that can be quickly given to him and eaten is another good method when praising him for a job well done.

4. This should be repeated again and again until your dog is walking in the correct position every time. It is possible to train your dog to heel well in one 15 minute session.

5. If your dog is the kind that jumps up on people, give the leash a firm corrective jerk and sharply say "No" in a deeper tone of voice. Its important this is constantly enforced both when outdoors on the leash and at home.

Resources

• How to Keep and File Important Records On Your Dog Or Cat

[kda2007]

on 10/8/2009 good advise.

[nancyzee]

on 10/1/2009 Good article on how to train your dog to walk properly on a leash. I recommend.