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How to Get Your Dog to Walk to Heel

Getting your dog to walk to heel may take time and patience, but it's worth it. Teaching your dog to walk beside you on a loose lead is an important skill for any dog to have. Here, we'll look at how to get your dog to walk to heel, from choosing the right collar and lead to teaching them the basics of walking to heel.

Selecting the Right Collar and Lead

When selecting a collar and lead, you should choose one that is comfortable for your dog. Avoid collars with spikes, studs, or sharp edges as these can cause discomfort and can even injure your pet. You'll also want to make sure the collar fits correctly. A collar should be snug enough so that it can't slip off, but not so tight that it restricts your dog's neck.

When selecting a lead, look for one that is lightweight and durable. A retractable lead can be a good option for teaching your dog to walk to heel, as it allows them some freedom to explore while still giving you control.

Creating a Positive Environment

Before you begin training your dog to walk to heel, it's important to create a positive environment. This means making sure your dog is calm and relaxed, and that you are in a good mood. If your dog is overly excited or stressed, wait until they are calm before you start training.

You should also reward your dog for good behaviour. This could be with treats, verbal praise, or even a pat on the head. Rewards are an important part of training and will help your dog to understand what behaviour is acceptable.

Teaching Your Dog to Walk to Heel

Once you have selected the right collar and lead and created a positive environment, you can begin teaching your dog to walk to heel. Here are some steps to help you get started:

  • Start with the Basics: Begin by teaching your dog to walk alongside you. Use a treat or toy to help your dog stay focused, and reward them for staying close. Once your dog is walking alongside you, you can start to move on to the next step.
  • Practice Makes Perfect: Practice is key when it comes to teaching your dog to walk to heel. Start off with short sessions and gradually increase the length of time as your dog gets better. Take regular breaks and don't forget to reward your dog for good behaviour.
  • Be Patient: Learning to walk to heel can take time, so it's important to be patient. Don't scold your dog if they make mistakes, as this could damage the trust between you. Instead, use positive reinforcement to help your dog understand what you want them to do.

Using a Clicker

Using a clicker can be a great way to teach your dog to walk to heel. A clicker is a small handheld device that makes a clicking sound when pressed. When used correctly, the clicker can be used to mark desirable behaviour, such as when your dog is walking to heel. When your dog hears the click, they will know they have done something right and will be rewarded.

Using a clicker is an effective way to train your dog, as it helps them to understand what behaviour is desirable. It's also a great way to reward your dog without having to use treats or verbal praise.

Conclusion

Getting your dog to walk to heel can take time and patience, but it's worth it. By selecting the right collar and lead, creating a positive environment, and using rewards and a clicker, you can teach your dog to walk to heel. With practice and consistency, your dog will soon be walking alongside you on a loose lead.


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