Teaching your dog to walk politely by your side, a skill known as heeling, is a fundamental aspect of dog training. Whether you have a bouncy puppy or a mature dog, learning to heel can transform your walks from a tug-of-war into a harmonious experience. This guide utilizes a positive reinforcement technique, often referred to as directed shaping, to help your canine companion understand and even enjoy walking in the heel position. The goal is to make the process engaging and rewarding for both you and your dog, fostering a stronger bond and a well-behaved pet.
Getting Started with Heel Training
The foundation of successful heeling lies in positive reinforcement and clear communication. Begin by gathering an ample supply of high-value treats – small, enticing morsels that your dog will be eager to work for. Cut them into tiny pieces to allow for frequent rewards. The initial training sessions should take place in a distraction-free environment, such as a spacious room in your house or a long hallway. This allows your dog to focus entirely on you and the learning process.
Guiding Your Dog into Position
Start by calling your dog’s name and using a clear hand signal to indicate the side you want your dog to walk on. Traditionally, the left side is used for formal obedience and rally competitions, but consistency is key, so choose a side and stick with it. The moment your dog moves to your designated side, use a marker signal – either a clicker or a verbal cue like “yes” – followed immediately by a treat. Repeat this process several times.
As your dog begins to grasp the concept, gradually reduce your verbal cues and hand signals. Allow your dog to offer the desired behavior by willingly coming into the heel position beside you. Continue to mark and reward each successful instance. This stage is crucial for your dog to understand that being by your side is what earns them reinforcement.
Adding Complexity and Engagement
Once your dog is reliably coming into the heel position, it’s time to introduce a bit more challenge. Begin to increase your walking pace, incorporate turns, and even try zig-zagging movements. The idea is to create situations where your dog needs to actively work to maintain their position beside you. This helps them develop a deeper understanding of the “heel” cue and strengthens their focus.
As your dog becomes more proficient, start incorporating eye contact cues, such as “Look” or “Watch Me.” This not only reinforces their attention on you but also adds another layer to the heeling exercise, ensuring your dog is engaged with you and not just passively walking. How to get my dog not to pull on leash can be a helpful resource if leash pulling is a significant issue you’re facing.
Handy Tips for Success
- Choose Your Side: While the left side is traditional for competitions, any side can work for casual walking. Consistency is paramount.
- Treat Hand Placement: Hold your treat hand close to your chest. This discourages your dog from luring or jumping towards the treat. It also helps prevent them from cutting in front of you.
- Reward Proximity: Always deliver the treat with the hand closest to your dog. This reinforces the correct positioning and discourages them from moving in front of you to get the reward.
- Consistent Marking: Always use your marker signal (clicker or “yes”) to tell your dog exactly when they have performed the correct action. This clear communication is vital for effective training.
- Keep it Positive: Training should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your dog. Keep sessions short, frequent, and always end on a positive note.
- Manage Expectations: Understand that every dog learns at a different pace. Be patient and celebrate small successes along the way.
Seeking Further Assistance
Training your dog can present unique challenges, and sometimes expert guidance is invaluable. If you find yourself needing more personalized advice on heeling or any other behavioral or training issues, the AKC GoodDog! Helpline offers a live telephone service connecting you with professional trainers. They can provide unlimited, individualized support to help you navigate the complexities of dog training and strengthen the bond with your furry companion.
