Heel is an important command for all dogs to learn!
A well-heeled dog is more straightforward to walk and control.
Training your dog to walk beside you, or “heel,” can be a game-changer.
The world outside is full of exciting smells, sights, and noises that often grab a dog’s attention.
Imagine You’re strolling down the street, and instead of playing tug-of-war with the leash, your furry buddy is calmly walking right next to you. Sounds dreamy, right?
Teaching your dog to Heel
Teaching your dog to heel, this trick might sound like a tall order, especially if you’ve got a super energetic pup or an older dog set in their way.
But trust me, with a bit of patience and some tasty treats in hand, you can make it happen.
Be consistent, use the same command
You’ve got to be consistent. If you tell your dog “stop” one day and “wait” the next, they’re going to be like, “Huh? What do you want from me?”
So, pick a command and stick with it.
If your dog starts pulling on the leash, don’t let them get away with it.
They’ll keep doing it if they think they can lead the way by pulling.
It’s like letting a kid have candy every time they ask – pretty soon, they’ll be asking all the time!
Before you start training for heel
When starting, find a quiet spot without too many distractions.
Your backyard or a quiet park is perfect. You can venture out to busier places once your dog starts getting the hang of it.
Remember that every little win counts if you ever feel stuck or frustrated.
Celebrate the small stuff; before you know it, you and your dog will walk side by side like pros.
FAQ Heel
Q: How long does it take to train a dog to heel?
A: The duration varies for each dog.
Some might pick it up in a few weeks, while others might take months.
Consistency is key.
Q: My dog keeps getting distracted. What should I do?
A: Start training in a quiet environment with minimal distractions.
Gradually introduce new settings and use treats or toys to keep their attention on you.
Q: Can older dogs be trained to heel?
A: Absolutely!
While it’s often easier to train puppies, older dogs can learn new tricks.
It might require more patience and consistency, but it’s definitely possible.
