Step # 5 Basic Dog Obedience Training is the “Heel” command. Now, out of the 5 steps, I find this one to be not only the hardest but the most rewarding as a dog owner. When you can confidently walk down the street with your dog at your side it instills in you a sense of pride! It says ” my dog is an awesome dog”!
How To Teach Your Dog To Heel:
Attach your dogs leash to his collar!
Put your dog at your left side in the sit position then step off with your left foot saying your dogs name and “Heel” Followed by good Boy / Girl and a treat!
Every few steps stop to praise him / her for being in the correct place.
When he lunges ahead or lags behind, stop to let him wander to the end of his leash.
Give a slight tug to put him / her back in place followed by praise and treat when he bounces back to you.
Stop every once in a while putting him in a sit position immediately when you stop followed by praise and a treat.
Keep at it. Your dog will eventually get it a learn what position makes you happy and rewards him / her!
Tips: Since this is the final step in basic dog obedience training you should incorporate all the steps with this one.
Try to make sure that your dog has fun! If he / she is not having fun then they will become uninterested in what you are trying too teach them. Jump up and down and sing praises when they do something right! After your dog masters this technique then its time for your treat.Go to Texas Roadhouse and have a steak for a job well done!