Comments on: How to Train Your Dog to Heel

on 9/27/2008 Thank you - this is helpful! Will be trying it with my puppy to teach her how to walk with me nicely and not pull at the leash!!

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on 4/12/2008 Do not gradually change the rule (distance) for your dog. Teach a dog exactly what you want from him from the start. I would also recommend saying "good heel" and remind them of the word constantly.
Dog's should not walk in front but stay inline. If they walk in front they can't watch for signals to turn or stop.

on 4/12/2008 Do not gradually change the rule (distance) for you dog. Teach a dog exactly what you want from him from the start. I would also recommend saying "good heel" and remind them of the word constantly. Dog's should not walk in front but stay inline. If they walk infront they can't watch for signals to turn or stop.

on 11/17/2007 Italics
Yea dogs tend to really love food so if you have a lot and even pull by the collar if you have food they will do it

on 4/16/2007 Some dogs think that they can heel, receive their treat, and then run ahead. True, they are heeling, but only momentarily. That is why I use a different method. Dogs need to know that you're the boss. When my dog runs ahead, I tell him firmly to heel. If he doesn't heel, I bang my knee firmly but softly into his side, so he gets the point but he doesn't get hurt.
WARNING: Only use this method on a dog that already knows what the word "heel" means. If it doesn't, it will only confuse them further.

on 11/22/2005 If you are using treats as a reward, become a slot machine for your dog. Let him think that this may be the time you are going to pay off! Sometimes you do, and sometimes you don't.

on 11/22/2005 Dogs love routines. Why not use it in our advantage?

When going outside with the dog on a regular leash (nut choke leash), keep him close to your leg so that:

- If he stays totally behind, his nose should be next to your leg.

- If he goes in front, his rear legs should be next to your leg.

As you are walking, at every 5-6 paces, tell him to heel. As time passes, and the dog shows signs of understanding, gradually minimize the distance he is allowed to go away from you until his front legs are next to yours and MAXIMIZE the interval of paces at which you give the command. With my Doberman, it worked in 3 weeks.

Be sure not to say heel before you stop! It will confuse the dog!

on 11/22/2005 When the dog goes ahead of you, surprise her by turning around and saying "heel." Dogs don't like surprises and this keeps them watching you.

on 11/22/2005 I have found that the word "yes" works a little better than the word "good." The dogs focus on it better because they don't hear it as much as "good." But it is important to say it as soon as the action you are asking for is correct.

on 11/22/2005 Try walking rapidly on a short
leash without using a food reward.

on 11/22/2005 Use a toy if your dog doesn't respond to food.