The heeling command is very useful for dog owners. Basically the heel command is just like it sounds. You want your dog to return to the "heel" position, which is basically right near your feet beside you, not in front and not in the back. The heel command is especially useful when you are walking your dog on a leash.
Taking your dog for a walk can be relaxing a fun. However, nothing spoils the mood than having your dog "drag" you down the sidewalk or nature path in the park. On the opposite end of the scale, your dog could also lag behind you, stopping to "smell the roses." When this happens, they are displaying bad leash manners because they do not know how to heel. With the right training, you could get them heeling in no time at all.
The first step in teaching your dog to heel is placing your dog in the proper position beside you first. Use their name and then the heel command. Every time he moves, gently move him back into position and say heel. When he moves again, just say heel and see what he does. If he actually moves back into position, give him plenty of praise for a job well done. And if he does not move back into position, repeat the process - move him back into position and say heel.
During your leashed walks with your dog, if your dog likes pulling ahead of you, stop walking and hold tight to the leash. He may stop and look at you to see what the hold-up is. Firmly tell him to heel and guide him back into position if necessary. Give him a treat and praise him. Start walking again. If your dog pulls ahead again, repeat your tight hold on the leash; say heel and guide him back into position.
Now, if your dog has a tendency to drag behind you, take stock of your stride. If you are walking too fast, your dog may not be able to keep up, especially if it is a small dog with little legs. Another reason for lagging behind you on a leash could be due to the fact that he may be sniffing the territory, checking out the other dogs or even finding a place to relieve himself.
If your pace is too fast, slow it down a bit. But if your dog is lagging behind because he is sniffing around, be gently authoritative. Do not allow him to slow you down. Rather, carry treats or a toy as an incentive to capture his attention and keep it focused on walking.
Knowing the heel command is super important, especially in potentially dangerous situations. What if you were in a crosswalk with your leashed dog and he decided to break the heel command? The only thing stopping him from darting out into traffic would be your firm hold on his leash. For your sake and his, master the heel command for safety. You will feel a lot better for it!
