28/01/2025
Heel training- Positive reinforcement is key 🔑
Top Tips:
1. Pick high value rewards (cheese, chicken, anything that your dog loves!)
2. Start in a low distraction area to give your dog the best chance of success, gradually increase distractions when your dog is reliably heeling.
3. Engagement is vital, your dog needs to look at you or follow your direction. Every time you get their attention reward.
4. Use a 6ft lead initially to teach heel, before having off lead freedom use a long line on a harness (never a collar as it can damage their neck) this will allow your dog to have the ability to explore and if they stick to your side reward.
5. Include a verbal cue/click to confirm to your dog they are doing the right thing, reward when they listen.
6. Incorporate turns and reward when your dog is engaged and continues at your side.
