Training your dog to heel means training him to walk correctly under leash control. It is advisable you begin this training at a fairly early age, more so because leash control is required by law in some areas in the country. Also, the puppy will need more exercise than he can get in his play pen, and he will have to get used to the sights and sounds of the streets.
When you begin to leash walk your dog, you walk with his right shoulder about on a line with your left knee. When the dog has learned this lesson, the leash will be held in the left hand, the right being free for other duties. However throughout the training period, the leash will be shortened by coiling and is held in the right hand. The left hand grasps that part of the leash closer to the dog’s collar. Just how near the collar the hand can be placed will depend upon the size of the dog.
Keep the dog on your left side. Walk at a fairly brisk pace. Look for a quiet path or sidewalk so that passersby will not attract the dog’s attention. The reason for this is to make him walk easily and willingly. The dog may charge ahead like a little bull or baulk and pull back. If he pulls ahead, tug sharply on the leash as you command “Heel!” to keep him in line. Here, the stiffly-held left arm will help especially if he tries to jump up against you or pull to the side. Every time he goes off the straight and narrow, be ready to order him to “Heel!” Keep saying “Heel!” from time to time.
Take note of the fact that there is a difference between command and correction. All commands are issued in a clear, calm tone. The sharp word and the jerk upon the leash are corrections to be issued, for instance, when the dog stops to sniff the ground. And when he understands and obeys, be liberal with your praise. Several lessons daily, of about ten minutes each, will be about right. The puppy gets tired easily and then becomes confused, so little and often is the rule.
For more tips on general dog training, Check out these Dog Training Special
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