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How to teach your dog to heel well

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Do you love your dog, but hate it when he pulls on the lead, barks at other dogs or simply doesn't listen to you? Then this article is just right for you! Here you can find out how to teach your dog to walk at heel and the benefits for both of you.

What does walking at heel mean?

Heeling means that your dog walks next to you without pulling on the lead or getting distracted. He orients himself towards you and adapts his pace and direction to you. This may sound simple, but it requires a lot of patience and practice from you and your dog.

Why is walking to heel important?

Walking at heel is not only a question of good manners, but also of safety. If your dog pulls on the lead, he can injure himself or knock you down. It can also frighten or provoke other dogs or people. If your dog walks at heel, you have more control over him and can react better to unforeseen situations. It also strengthens your bond and your trust in each other.

How do you teach your dog to heel?

There are different methods to teach your dog to heel, but the basic principles are always the same: reward, consistency and repetition. Here are some steps you can follow:

1. choose a command and a signal

Before you start training, you should decide on a command and a signal for heel. This could be "heel" or "heel", for example. The signal can be a gesture or a clicker. It is important that you always use the same command and signal and that your dog can recognize them easily.

2. practise in a quiet environment

The first step is to teach your dog what the command and signal mean. To do this, you need a quiet environment without distractions. Put your dog on the lead and keep him next to you. Give the command and signal and reward him immediately with a treat or praise when he looks at you. Repeat this several times until your dog understands that he gets your attention when he hears the command and signal.

3. increase the difficulty

Once your dog has understood the command and signal, you can increase the difficulty. Start walking slowly and give the command and signal. Reward your dog every time he stays next to you. If he pulls on the lead or gets distracted, stop or change direction. Do not give him a reward until he is next to you again. Repeat this several times in different situations.

4. reduce the rewards

If your dog walks at heel without pulling on the lead or getting distracted, you can reduce the rewards. No longer give him a treat or praise every time, but only now and again. This way, he learns that he doesn't just walk at heel for a reward, but because it's pleasant.

Conclusion

Heeling is a useful skill for your dog that will bring you both many benefits. However, it also requires a lot of time and patience from you. Be consistent and fair with your dog and reward him for his progress. And above all: have fun with it!