Teaching your dog to walk politely by your side is a cornerstone of good dog training. The “Heel” command is designed to guide your puppy to walk closely alongside your foot on the side you choose, maintaining that position as you walk, and even as you change directions. This foundational skill not only makes walks more enjoyable but also demonstrates a strong bond and understanding between you and your canine companion. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to effectively teach your dog the “Heel” command.
The Fundamentals of “Heel” Training
When you begin introducing the “Heel” command, consistency is key. First, decide on which side you want your puppy to walk. Whether it’s the left or right, commit to that side. Hold the leash in the hand on your puppy’s chosen side, gathering any slack with your other hand. Crucially, keep a high-value treat in the hand closest to your puppy. This treat serves as a lure, guiding their nose and, consequently, their body, to stay in the correct position. By keeping your arm straight and your hand by your side, you create a clear visual cue and physical guide for your puppy’s walking path.
To start, take a slow step forward with the foot nearest to your puppy, simultaneously saying the “Heel” command. Continue for a few steps, ensuring your puppy is moving alongside you. Once they have successfully followed, stop, mark the behavior with a positive marker like “Good!”, and immediately reward them with the treat. Repeat this process, taking only a few slow steps at a time, consistently marking and rewarding their progress. This repetition builds a clear association between the command, the desired action, and the reward.
Pro tip: If multiple family members will be walking the puppy, ensure everyone uses the same side for the “Heel” command. This uniformity in practice will significantly help your puppy learn and prevent confusion, which can lead to them zig-zagging or lagging behind. Once your puppy has a solid understanding of “Heel,” you can gradually introduce variations.
Integrating “Heel” with “Place” and Turns
For puppies, especially those new to training, channeling their energy productively is vital. The “Place” command, which teaches your dog to go to and stay on a designated spot, can be a valuable tool when introducing “Heel.” Teaching your puppy confidence for the real world often involves mastering foundational commands like “Place” first. When your puppy is on their “Place,” it provides a stable starting point and a target for their focus, preventing them from getting overly excited and zooming around during “Heel” practice. This is particularly helpful in the initial stages when you are still refining your handling skills.
To begin this integrated exercise, have your puppy on their “Place.” Stand beside them, facing away from their “Place” on the side you intend to practice “Heel.” Say the “Heel” command and take a few steps forward with the foot next to your puppy. Continue to keep a treat visible in front of your puppy’s nose to maintain their focus and correct walking position. Once they have walked with you, mark with “Good!” and reward. Now, take a few more steps forward, and as you begin to turn around, say “Heel” again. Keep the treat in the same position to help your puppy maintain focus during the turn. Mark the correct behavior with “Good!” and reward. After a few more steps, say “Heel,” then “Place,” pause briefly, and reward your puppy. This final step encourages them to return to their designated spot after the “Heel” exercise, reinforcing the connection between the commands.
Combining “Heel” with a “Sit”
Once your puppy has a grasp of the basic “Heel” command and can walk alongside you, you can introduce a “Sit” at the end of the exercise. This adds another layer of control and politeness to your walks. After practicing “Heel” for a short distance, give the “Sit” command. As your puppy sits, reward them. This teaches them to finish the “Heel” sequence with a controlled sit, which is incredibly useful for calmly waiting at street corners, doorways, or when greeting people.
Troubleshooting Common “Heel” Challenges
It’s common for puppies to occasionally lag behind, pull ahead, or get distracted. If your puppy falls behind, a gentle tug on the leash combined with a lure from your treat hand can help guide them back into position. If they pull ahead, stop walking immediately. Only resume walking when the leash slackens and your puppy returns to the correct position. For distractions, ensure your treats are enticing enough and practice in quieter environments initially before moving to more stimulating areas. Patience and consistency are your greatest allies in overcoming these common training hurdles.
Conclusion: Building Confident, Polite Walkers
Teaching your dog to “Heel” is a rewarding process that strengthens your communication and enhances your shared experiences. By breaking down the command into manageable steps, utilizing rewards effectively, and remaining consistent, you can train your dog to walk politely by your side. Remember that every dog learns at their own pace, so celebrate small victories and always maintain a positive attitude. If you’re looking for more personalized guidance or encountering persistent challenges, consider reaching out to professional dog trainers or local training facilities. Contact us today to learn more about our expert training programs and help your dog become the best walking companion they can be.
